La Penne-sur-Huveaune can be explored through two distinct themes: structures with clearly identifiable forms and the landscape around La Candolle. The Pennelus, also known as Pennele or La Pennelle, can be reached on foot via the steps of Montée Paya. La Candolle overlooks the commune, faces the Pagnol hills and lies on the edge of the Massif des Calanques. You can choose your focus based on whether you would rather look at architectural forms or understand how the landscape features relate to one another.
Structures and historical context
The Aqueduc de la Candolle, also known as Les Arcades, can be described using three specific details: it has 16 arches, is 122 metres long and reaches a maximum height of 12 metres. The number of arches describes its structure; its length and maximum height convey different measures of the same structure. The Pennelus, by contrast, is notable for its massive, 8-metre-high structure in the form of a truncated pyramid. While the aqueduct is characterised by its arches and span, the Pennelus offers a different point of comparison in its geometric shape. The structures can therefore be compared by their respective forms and dimensions.
The Pennelus was probably built at the end of the 1st century BC. The most plausible interpretation is that it is a mausoleum, more specifically a less ornate rural funerary pillar structure. The dating is uncertain, and its function also remains an interpretation rather than a definitive identification. The Eglise Saint-Laurent dates from the 18th century. Thus, a tentatively dated structure and an 18th-century church stand side by side as different historical reference points in the commune’s history. The possible funerary interpretation and the known century of the church are two different ways of placing the structures in their historical context.
Hiking and landscape
For a focus on the landscape, the La Candolle hike starts at the Aqueduc de la Penne-sur-Huveaune, on the edge of the municipal forest. It follows a yellow-marked trail that joins the GR2013. The starting point, trail markings and connection to the GR2013 are the route’s specific navigational reference points. Markings and trail conditions may change; check them before setting off if you are planning the hike. In contrast to the Pennelus, which is reached via steps, the hike is described by its starting point and route. This offers two different planning references: a specific access point to a structure and a marked trail that connects to the GR2013.
Local cultural programme
As part of the municipal cultural programme, the Salle de Spectacle de l’Espace de L’Huveaune hosts music, theatre and dance events. Individual performances and dates may change. Check the schedule if a specific event is a deciding factor for your trip. Planning also differs from planning a hike: for a performance, the specific date matters, while for the route, the markings and trail conditions are important. When choosing between a cultural event and an outdoor excursion, you can therefore take different practical considerations into account.
Discover more destinations: Eyguières, Belcodène, Trets, Mouriès, Eguilles, Saintes-Maries-De-La-Mer, Tarascon, Le Grau-Du-Roi
Go to the wider travel guide: Bouches Du Rhone.
