In the heart of Fréjus, nestled between the sea and history, stands the majestic Villa Marie, a place where the elegance of architecture rubs shoulders with the richness of a fascinating past.

Villa Marie media library of Fréjus

A luxury residence between history and elegance: Villa Marie

Built in 1883 under the name of "Villa Virginie", the villa was acquired in 1892 by Joseph-Marie Thévenet. The latter, an influential member of the Lyon bourgeoisie, left the villa to his son, Joseph Marius. In 1903 and 1905, the latter carried out extensions and renovations that transformed the villa. It then took the name of "Villa Marie", in homage to his wife. Senator of the Rhône and a respected man, Joseph Marius Thévenet designed the villa as a place of luxury and comfort. He made it a space conducive to relaxation and receptions. In addition, located near the Roman ruins of Fréjus, the villa is distinguished by its eclectic architecture. It combines classical, neo-Renaissance and neo-Gothic influences. The building extends over two levels, with bays, twin columns and elegant pediments.

An exceptional garden and a panoramic view from Villa Marie

The belvedere tower, emerging from the roof, offers a breathtaking view of the park and the sea.

This 2-hectare park is a true landscaped masterpiece. Designed in 1906, it follows the geometric shapes of the French garden. The paths, lined with magnolias and cedars, lead to a rectangular pond decorated with classical statues. At the heart of the garden, there are rare species such as century-old palm trees, grandiflora magnolias and Himalayan cedars. In addition, the statue of the Marquis de Valbelle, from his tomb, and a copy of Falconnet's Bather enrich this place of serenity.

Villa Marie

a journey through time and history

The interiors of the villa are equally refined. Vast lounges occupy both levels. Neo-Gothic fireplaces, mosaics and precious marbles blend harmoniously. A private chapel, decorated with murals, reflects the owners' taste for art and spirituality.

However, the story of the Villa Marie does not end with the Thévenets. After their departure, the villa became a hotel-restaurant. In 1952, the city bought it and made it a vacation spot for employees of the Mines de la Sarre. Then, in 1963, it was transformed into a municipal library. Today, the Fréjus Media Library invites visitors to travel back in time through its books, exhibitions and cultural events.

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings, in 2019, the gardens welcome a pecan tree. This gesture pays tribute to Thomas Jefferson, ambassador to France from 1785 to 1789 and third President of the United States. Jefferson stayed in Fréjus on April 9, 1787. The pecan tree, a tree producing pecan nuts, symbolizes Franco-American friendship and the shared history between Fréjus and the United States.

In addition, the Fredericksburg Carillon, offered by the American city, sits at the entrance to the gardens. This carillon, accompanied by a panel made by a Fredericksburg ironworker, symbolizes the friendship between Fréjus and its twin city. Thus, the gardens of the Villa-Marie welcome these two significant gifts, witnesses to a shared history.

Villa Marie: where history flourishes in culture and escape

Thus, Villa Marie embodies the perfect marriage between history, art and culture. It is a living testimony to the elegance of a bygone era. Today, it has become a beacon of culture in Fréjus.

Indeed, it is here, between the shade of the magnolias and the light of the past, that visitors discover the living memory of the city. Moreover, they can also enjoy a moment of escape and reflection.

Opening times

Days of the weekSchedule
MondayClosed
Tuesday09h00-12h00 et 14h00-17h30
Wednesday09h00-17h30
Thursday14h00-17h30
Friday14h00-17h30
Saturday10h00-12h30 et 13h30-17h30
SundayClosed
Villa Marie media library of Fréjus
Villa Marie media library of Fréjus garden
Open. Closes at 17:30 p.m.
447 Rue Aristide Briand
83600 Fréjus
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