Marcel Pagnol's Birthplace

You’re now standing in front of the house where one of France’s most beloved writers, playwrights, and filmmakers was born, Marcel Pagnol, in 1895. He went on to leave a lasting mark on French culture, and first gained fame in 1928 with the play Topaze, followed by Marius in 1929, the opening chapter of his legendary Marseille Trilogy. When Marius hit the big screen in 1931, it became one of France’s first talking films, helping to usher out the silent film era. That same year, Pagnol released Fanny, the second play in the trilogy, and quickly adapted it for cinema by launching his own production company. It was another hit, featuring the same endearing characters audiences had come to love. The third part, César, was released as a film in 1936, bringing the trilogy to a heartfelt close and securing its place in French cinematic history. Later in his career, Pagnol turned to more personal stories, most notably My Father’s Glory, published in 1957. This autobiographical novel reflects on his early years, from his birth in Aubagne to his father’s quiet pride and later accomplishments. It’s a touching read, and also available as a film, if that’s more your style. You’re now in front of the building where it all began. Step inside to explore a reconstruction of Pagnol’s childhood apartment, an exhibition space filled with letters, photos, and personal objects, and a short documentary that brings his life and work to the screen. It’s a wonderful way to get to know this extraordinary artist, who became a member of the French Academy, the leading institution on the French language, in 1946.