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 One of the oldest churches of Marseille |
10, place Daviel Marseille 13002 France +33 491 72 4347 |
The last relics of one of the oldest churches in Marseille, this building was built in the 12th Century and altered in the 14th and 17th Centuries. It was destroyed during the revolution for hosting meetings of the sections who were outraged by the convention. Only the bell was saved. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Laurence Thurion  |
 Photo: hevine |
 Photo: Marc DUPUY |
 The city's symbol |
Colline de la Garde Marseille 13006 France +33 491 13 4080 |
Topped by a monumental gilded bronze statue of the Virgin and Child - added in 1870 - Marseilles' distinctive basilica dominates the city from its highest point of 154m. Formerly used as a look-out post and important city fortification (François I had a fort built here in 1524), the hill on which it stands - Colline de la Garde - became a popular place of worship and pilgrimage with the building of this Romano-Byzantine-style basilica. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the church was built on the site of the first chapel erected here in 1214. Today's basilica, designed by Espérandieu, formed part of major building work undertaken during the Second Empire and was consecrated in 1864. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Katherine Hala |
 Photo: Pierre Maura |
 Photo: graham chandler |
 Photo: Andrew Goldsmith |
 Photo: Jon Brookes o-o-o.co.uk |
 Photo: Patrick Spence |
 Photo: christoph22ck |
 Photo: Uriel Ulam |
 Photo: Jon Brookes o-o-o.co.uk |
 Photo: NoelleMarchbanks.com |
 Photo: Richard Gillespie |
 Photo: Catherine Declercq |
 Photo: Paul Ielovcich |
 Photo: Bucc_i |
 Photo: Joyce Wu |
 Photo: Haris Kallimages |
 Photo: Angela De Ritis |
 Photo: Balzani Marco |
 Photo: Norbert Ronflé |
 Photo: Ana Paula Brasil |
 Photo: Denise Prevost |
 Photo: Pedro Cavalheiro |
 Photo: oNico® |
 Photo: thejiveass |
 Photo: Ludovic LAPORTE |
 Photo: Jim Hauck/John Tock |
 Photo: mamjodh |
 Photo: Jeyaganesh Rajamanickam |
 Photo: Petr Sturc |
 Photo: Alan Millington |
 Photo: greecetahiti |
 Photo: lorendabatson |
 Photo: AloisioL |
 Photo: hilde coenegrachts |
 Photo: La femme Nikita |
 Photo: Miquel Calduch |
 Photo: The Real Hell |
 Photo: ibelle31 |
 Photo: eflen001 |
 Photo: Sergio Torres |
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Mediterranean promenade |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13008 France |
The long coastal road, leading from the centre of Marseilles to the Prado and Gaston Defferre beaches, was constructed between 1850 and 1861. At this time it served to link the city centre with the chalet districts - the cabanons - purpose built summer holiday accomodation. Measuring only 10 metres or so in width, an extension became necessary to bring the road in line with the post-war residential developments in the south. Undertaken by municipal engineers, the expansion was carried out between 1957 and 1968. Today, the coastal road is 22m wide with a split-level pavement on the seaward side, like a corbelled baclony, and an extended bench fitted along the whole 2200m stretch, making it the longest bench in the world! Looking out over Marseilles' famous natural harbour, the coastal road offers a magnificent view of the Frioul islands and Château d'If. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Yas Valentino |
 Photo: Dan from Mars |
 Photo: Nacer |
 Photo: Alina Komnatnaya |
 Photo: Fred PASCAL |
 Photo: maarjaara |
 Photo: Rachel Tapley |
 Photo: synthetichem |
 Built to watch over Marseilles |
2, boulevard Charles-Livon Marseille 13007 France +33 491 13 8900 (office du Tourisme) |
Situated at the entrance to the Vieux-Port on the south bank, Fort Saint-Nicolas was built on the orders of the "Sun King" Louis XIV, according to a radial design plan by the chevalier de Clerville in the 17th century.Built to watch over the townspeople and to defend the crown against civil unrest or rebellion, the canons were turned on the city. The tower, named Entrecasteaux, is now home to the Foreign Legion. The only way to visit the fort is through the Tourist Office which has arranged organised tours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: marseilleforum.com |
 Photo: jochlenw |
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Gateway to the East |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13007 France |
Situated on Promenade Kennedy, opposite Boulevard des Dardanelles, this monument, reminiscent of Paris arc de triomphe was designed by architect Castel and created by sculptor Antonio Sartorio. It represents the "Gateway to the East", as Marseilles has often been named due to its geographical location, its maritime traits and the fact that it opens onto the East. It is worth noting that from here, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Château d'If and the Frioul islands. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A tribute to old Marseilles |
21, cours Estienne-d'Orves Marseille 13001 France |
Located in Marseilles' former shipyards, near the old port area, the Maison de l'Artisanat et des Métiers d'Art is a place of discovery. Exhibitions are ostensibly organised around themes, with exhibits often available for purchase. A tribute to Marseille and the region, the museum has managed to preserve a sense of local tradition and the trade of times past is particularly well represented.Admission: Free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Private beach club at Catalans |
Corniche Président Kennedy Marseille 13007 France |
This private sandy beach on the Catalans resort, near the Palais du Pharo, does charge an entrance fee, although beach umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent and there are a number of volleyball courts for the sports lovers among you (tournaments also take place here). In addition, the beach is dotted with various snack bars and cafés, making it a not-to-be-missed spot for summer get-togethers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jhervebond |
 Photo: tagada_mouse |
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Peaceful hideaway near the town |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13007 France |
In order to reach the shores of Malmousque, turn off the coastal road and follow Chemin de Boudouresque and Rue de la Douane. This area, with its inlets and beach huts is a hideout for informed bathers and fishermen seeking a little peace and quiet. The tranquil setting offers a beautiful view of the sea and surrounding islands, only a few moments away from the hub of the town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Patrick Crapel |
 Photo: Yoan-Loic FAURE |
 Photo: u.bung |
 Photo: Nicolas Mirguet |
 Photo: j.luc Dehaut |
 Photo: Nicolas Klein |
 Photo: obni |
 Photo: Alexbip |
 Photo: Nicolas Klein |
 Photo: Patrick Crapel |
 Photo: Lionel Cau |
 Photo: Amodalie DE BELFORT |
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A figure of tradition |
47, rue Neuve-Sainte-Catherine Marseille 13007 France +33 491 54 2658 |
Close to the old port, the Musée du Santon has on display miniature cribs, representing the manger and nativity scene with small figurines, as well as artefacts and accessories that belong to the Provençal tradition. Modelling techniques are also explained, as well as firing the figures in the kiln and the art of painting them. With nearly 1000 exhibits, the museum provides a playful way of exploring this ancestral art. A history of Marseilles and Provence in miniature. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Claire McCann |
 Photo: Claire McCann |
 Exquisite palace gardens |
58, boulevard Charles-Livon Marseille 13007 France +33 49 15 5175 |
In the mid-19th Century, Napoleon III built a magnificent palace and adjoining gardens on the Maure promontory - a section of land presented to him by the inhabitants of Marseillles. The gardens surround the Pharo Palace, and boast an incredible view of the city and its harbour. They also contain a children's play area, a merry-go-round, a refreshment stall and a monument to the victims of the sea (by André Verdilhan) opposite Fort St-Jean. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Imperial palace |
58, boulevard Charles-Livon Marseille 13007 France +33 491 55 1575 |
Gifted to Napoleon III by Marseilles, this area of land, set on the Maure promontory overlooking the Château d'If (famous for its prison) and the entrance to the Vieux-Port, enabled the emperor to fulfil his plans for a waterfront residence. Built by architects Lefuel and Vaucher between 1858 and 1870, Napoleon's wife, empress Eugénie de Montijo, bequeathed the palace to the city in 1883. A 900-seater auditorium and several halls (in which official receptions, conferences and seminars are held) have been built beneath the garden. Art exhibitions occasionally take place here and are the ideal opportunity to take a look inside and enjoy the palace's magnificent décor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Shane MacClure |
 Photo: eeneillc |
 Photo: John F. Casey III |
 Photo: Josélito TIRADOS |
 Photo: Gunnar Sigfússon |
 Photo: Guillaume Chagnard |
 Photo: Ballow |
 Photo: Patrick Subotkiewiez |
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Historical park |
Avenue Abbé-Dassy Marseille 13007 France |
At the end of Cours Pierre Puget you'll come across the oldest garden in the city, dating back to the early 19th Century. Guarding the entrance is a staute of architect Pierre Puget, sculpted by Lombard in 1906. A magnificent view of the harbor can be enjoyed from the top of the hill.At the summit reach Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde can be reached by crossing the little footbridge. Before the ascent to the Oratoire, in Place du Colonel-Edon, the Joan of Arc tank which was hit by a German shell during the capture of Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde on 25th August 1944 still stands.Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Lively pedestrianized area |
Cours d'Estienne d'Orves Marseille 13001 France |
Lined with cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine, the city centre's largest pedestrianized area is the ideal place in which to relax after a spot of shopping in some of its stylish boutiques. As evening falls, the square's popular cocktail bars, nightclubs and jazz cafés have the crowds thronging in. Inaugurated in 1988 and modelled on the Italian piazza by architect Charlie Bové, the square is located on the site of the former 17th-century Arsenal des Galères prison built during Louis XIV's reign. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Denis G. |
 Photo: Le Christophe |
 Photo: marcelito01 |
 Photo: julie zeitoun |
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Ideal for watersports |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13008 France |
This extensive sandy beach in the southern part of town is an ideal location for windsurfing. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds are available for hire from waterfront restaurants, and thrill-seekers will be happy to know that waterskiing and windsurfing are also on offer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Phil Duvin |
 Photo: polbar |
 Photo: Marta Rosenquist |
 Photo: Ricardo Martín Neme |
 Photo: Paloma Baccarin |
 Photo: Bruno Mathon |
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Popular seaside park |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13008 France |
Now a popular place to visit in summer, the Prado beaches; stretching from Palm-Beach down to the sea wall at Pointe-Rouge; were developed in 1974 encompassing 20 hectares of parkland. The seaside park consists of a huge leisure area where the inhabitants of Marseilles; both young and old; come to relax and play football, roller-blade, skateboard (in a specially designated area), cycle and fly kites. The Wind Festival celebrated in September is an opportunity for dedicated kite-flyers the world over to get together here and have fun. Admission to the park is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Christian beginnings |
3, rue de l'Abbaye Marseille 13007 France +33 496 11 2260 |
Situated on the southern bank of the Vieux-Port above the dry dock, this abbey founded in the 5th century on the tomb of an ancient Christian martyr played an important role in Christianity's development in the Mediterranean between the 11th and 18th centuries. In the 14th century, Pope Urbain V (then installed in Avignon) oversaw its fortification. The abbey's crypt and catacombs, which contain a number of ancient sarcophagi, are open to visitors, whilst its excellent acoustics make it the perfect venue for the religious and classical music concerts held here on a regular basis. Large crowds attend its special ceremonies for la fête de la Chandeleur (Candlemas) in February. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Rick |
 Photo: Rick |
 Photo: Aldric van Gaver |
 Photo: Jaufré Rudel |
 Photo: Michel Roland-Guill |
 Photo: André Goios |
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Where the city's roots lie |
Vieux-Port (Boulevard Charles Livon) Marseille 13001 France |
Capture the essence of Marseille at the early morning fish market that takes place here daily or go for a stroll round the port, looking at the yachts and fishing boats bobbing gently side by side. Relax on one of the numerous café pavement terraces facing the port and watch the world go by or climb its south bank, from the top of which Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica commands an all-encompassing view of the city.The history of the port goes back as far as 600BC, with the arrival of sailors from Phocaea (a Greek city in Asia Minor). France's oldest city came into being following the union of one of their leaders, Protis, with Gyptis, princess of the Ligurian people already settled in the region, whose territory in ancient times stretched right along the Mediterranean coast. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: François Proulx |
 Photo: Sawrah Amini |
 Photo: Jonathan Marcialis |
 Photo: Jonathan Marcialis |
 Photo: Cosmojojo |
 Photo: Cosmojojo |
 Photo: Emily Bradford |
 Photo: Miss StrangeLove |
 Photo: Barry Hotchkies |
 Photo: Ellen Neidlinger |
 Photo: Boston AL |
 Photo: Evan Goldin |
 Photo: patrick_london |
 Photo: Heather Tinnin |
 Photo: Wai Lam WWW |
 Photo: Ainsley Haslett, NZ |
 Photo: Franny Drobny |
 Photo: scott fitzgerald |
 Photo: Joël Bourideys |
 Photo: kittiwake2712 |
 Photo: Alexandru Mustăţea |
 Photo: ypt_ |
 Photo: KrisAHB |
 Photo: Vladimir Firsov |
 Photo: tibiko |
 Photo: Adrian Denegar |
 Photo: val 45 |
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Small, picturesque fishing port |
Corniche Président Kennedy Marseille 13007 France |
Tucked away along a small inlet on the city's coast road is this little picture postcard fishing port. Stroll alongside the pointus (small, brightly coloured boats) and numerous seashore cabins before wandering through the picturesque narrow streets. Unsurprisingly this unique and very peaceful spot sheltered by the cliffs has provided inspiration for many artists. Also famous for its seafood restaurants, of which Chez Fonfon is probably the best known, the cove gets its name from auffiers or local craftsmen who used to make ropes and rigging. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Pascale Trencia |
 Photo: AnnieD |
 Photo: Ian Murray |
 Photo: Bryce Edwards |
 Photo: Cedric Clouchoux |
 Photo: chapelle olivier |
 Photo: will conley |
 Photo: Greg C. |
 Photo: peter |
 Photo: Julien Pareti |
 Photo: chperigault |
 Photo: Jean Pierre MARGAIX |
