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Les Pennes-Mirabeau facts for kids

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Blason de la ville des Pennes-Mirabeau (13)
The coat of arms for Les Pennes-Mirabeau

Les Pennes-Mirabeau is a town, also known as a commune, located in the south of France. In 1999, about 19,043 people lived there. It is part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region and the Bouches-du-Rhône department.

What is Les Pennes-Mirabeau Like?

Les Pennes-Mirabeau is a charming town in the south of France. It is known for its beautiful landscapes. The town is close to the big city of Marseille. This makes it a good place to live.

Geography and Location

The town is situated in the Bouches-du-Rhône department. This area is famous for its sunny weather. It is also close to the Mediterranean Sea. The landscape around Les Pennes-Mirabeau includes hills and valleys.

How Far is it from Marseille?

Les Pennes-Mirabeau is very close to Marseille. It is only about 15 kilometers (9 miles) away. This short distance makes it easy for people to travel between the two places. Many residents might work in Marseille.

Climate and Weather

The climate in Les Pennes-Mirabeau is Mediterranean. This means it has hot, dry summers. The winters are mild and sometimes rainy. This type of weather is great for growing olives and grapes.

A Look at History

Les Pennes-Mirabeau has a long and interesting history. People have lived in this area for thousands of years. Ancient tribes settled here first. Later, the Romans built roads and towns.

Early Settlements

The area was first settled by a group called the Salyes. They were an ancient Celtic-Ligurian tribe. They lived in fortified villages on hills. These villages were called oppida.

Roman Influence

The Romans arrived in the region around 125 BC. They built many important structures. Roman influence helped the area to grow. They brought new farming methods.

Medieval Times

During the Middle Ages, castles were built. These castles helped to protect the people. The town of Les Pennes-Mirabeau grew around one of these castles. The name "Pennes" comes from the word for "rocky peaks."

The Mirabeau Family

The "Mirabeau" part of the name comes from a famous family. The Mirabeau family owned land here. They were important figures in French history. One famous member was Honoré Gabriel Riqueti, comte de Mirabeau. He was a key leader during the French Revolution.

Life in Les Pennes-Mirabeau Today

Today, Les Pennes-Mirabeau is a modern town. It has many services for its residents. These include schools, shops, and parks. The town works to keep its historical charm.

Local Economy

The economy of Les Pennes-Mirabeau is diverse. It includes small businesses and industries. Many people also work in nearby Marseille. Tourism is also important. Visitors come to see the historical sites.

What Kinds of Businesses are There?

You can find many types of businesses in Les Pennes-Mirabeau. There are local shops and restaurants. Some larger companies also have offices or factories here. Farming is still a part of the local economy.

Education and Schools

The town has several schools for children. There are primary schools and secondary schools. These schools provide education for young people. They help students prepare for their future.

What About Sports and Activities?

Les Pennes-Mirabeau offers many sports and activities. There are sports clubs for soccer, basketball, and more. The town also has cultural events. These events bring the community together.

Important Landmarks

Les Pennes-Mirabeau has several interesting landmarks. These places tell the story of the town's past. They are also popular spots for visitors.

The Old Castle Ruins

High on a hill, you can see the ruins of an old castle. This castle dates back to medieval times. It offers amazing views of the surrounding area. It reminds everyone of the town's long history.

What is the Town Hall Like?

The Town Hall, or Mairie, is an important building. It is where the local government works. The building often has interesting architecture. It is a central point for the community.

Local Churches

There are also several historic churches in Les Pennes-Mirabeau. These churches are beautiful examples of old architecture. They have been important places for the community for centuries.

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