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 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 |
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 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 |
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 Photo: Denise Prevost |
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 Photo: Ludovic LAPORTE |
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 Photo: Jeyaganesh Rajamanickam |
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 Photo: Miquel Calduch |
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Seventeenth-century country house |
245, boulevard Michelet Marseille 13009 France +33 491 39 2828 |
This country house - in the style of an Italian villa - was built in the seventeenth century by the Magolon brothers who were wealthy merchants and ship-owners. Come and listen to a selection of Medieval, Renaissance and Baroque music in the intimate salon of one of the most beautiful country houses of this period in Marseille. It also has a classical French garden. You can also take part in 'Magalone Summer Nights' which takes place in the interior courtyard. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Backbone of the city |
1-36 La Canebière Marseille 13001 France |
La Canebière is Marseilles' most famous street, opening directly onto the old port. Its name originates from the Provençal term canébé, meaning "hemp," and can be traced back to the 11th century when the street was home to ropemakers and hemp merchants. With the destruction of the dockyard in the late 18th century, it gained free access to the port and in the 19th Century, its lively hotels, luxury shops, theatres, and cafes earned it an international reputation. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: E-Ice |
 Photo: Denis G. |
 Photo: Jan de Haas |
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Rock Quarries |
Route de Saint Remy Marseille 13520 France http://www.lesbauxdeprovence.c... |
The quarries of Baux de Provence originally provided the material for the village itself. This rock was used by the ancient Romans to create works of art and architecture that can be admired to this day. Later, the Château des Baux de Provence and the village were built of the same white rock. Beginning in the 18th century, these quarries became commercially important and the traces of extraction can be seen throughout the area today. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ode to water |
Place Castellane Marseille 13006 France |
At the crossroads of Rue de Rome, Boulevard Baille and Avenues Jules Cantini and du Prado, you will find Place Castellane. In the center of the square stands a monumental fountain, presented to the city by mason Jules Cantini and given shape by Marseillaise sculptor Allar in 1911. The Rhône, the Mediterranean, the Source and the Torrent are all represented on the pedestal in order to depict the journey of the River Rhône from its source to the Mediterranean. On top of the pedestal is a statue to symbolize Marseille itself. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Darcy Quesnel |
 Photo: polbar |
 Photo: Phillip Addis |
 Photo: Florent Chevallier |
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Visual Palace |
Route de Maillane Marseille 13520 France +33 4 90 54 38 65 http://www.cathedrale-images.com |
The Cathedral d'Images presents exhibits through an innovative concept: scenes or paintings are projected onto the walls of an old quarry. Around 4000 square meters (43,000 square feet) of "natural screens", 12 meters high (almost 40 feet!), transport the viewer to another time and place. The result is a unique artistic experience that will not fail in dazzling the eyes and imagination. Full price entrance fee is 7.50 euros; reduced fee for children and groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern architecture |
280, Boulevard Michelet Marseille 13008 France |
Nick-named the "Glorious City", this residential block has been designated a site of historic interest. Built in 1952, it was designed by Le Corbusier (Charles-Edouart Jeanneret). The 50,000 tonne building, supported by concrete pillars, is 165m long, 24m wide and 70m high. It contains 337 flats of 23 different types, and can accomodate 1500 people. The structure is unique both in terms of architecture and content - the unusual use of glass and concrete, and the fact that it contains housing, shops and services under one roof, exemplify the innovative contribution Le Corbusier made to modern architecture. Indeed, it is by incorporating such a wide range of services and features, (inlcuding crêche, shops, sports facilities, ornamental pool, theatre, and a hotel-restaurant), that the complex has become completely self-sufficient - a town within a town. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Vincent Bouret |
 Photo: Cameron Nordholm |
 Photo: Alx |
 Photo: Philip Davies |
 Photo: mixslug |
 Photo: Lucie Klein |
 Photo: krokets |
 Photo: Tobias Röös |
 Photo: Andraz Kavcic |
 Photo: Pauline Vernin |
 Photo: sarah hillion |
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Fashionable location |
Cours Julien Marseille 13006 France |
Enter this picturesque courtyard and former fruit and vegetable market, now converted into a beautiful garden. On the strike of noon, the sun-drenched terraces quickly fill up, revealing a pedestrian zone in the heart of the city, dressed in greenery and refreshed by fountains. The square draws in the hip, artistic crowds and it has become a very fashionable area with the influx of bars, restaurants, theaters and concert halls. When the sun goes down, the nightspots awake. Opposite the Cours Julien you'll find Place Carli, and the surrounding streets jam-packed with antiques and second-hand shops. Don't forget to browse through the little bookstores in front of the Regional Conservatory of Music and the Municipal Archives. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Alexbip |
 Photo: Bryce Edwards |
 Photo: stephane burtey |
![Cours Julien photo by Choufi [Streetart]](pictures/99206_3.jpg) Photo: Choufi [Streetart] |
 Photo: etiennel36 |
 Photo: Helen Barrass |
 Photo: bamzin |
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 Photo: MUGA |
 Photo: jaja_lubitsch |
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The Arm of the Law |
Place Daviel Marseille 13002 France |
In centuries gone by, it was in the square of Pavillon Daviel (the former Law Courts), that the guillotine awaited its victims. The building was constructed by the Gérard brothers between 1743 and 1747, using pink stone from the quarries of neighbouring village Couronne on the Côte Bleue. The magnificent wrought iron balcony, with decorative panels à la marguerite was the work of sculptor Verdiguier. The sculptures depict the hand of Justice, the torch of Themis, the King's weapons, cherubs (sadly damaged during the Revolution), the Tables of the Law and Marseilles' coat of arms which is held up by children. For 130 years, all city tribunals took place here, later being used only for civil inquiries. Today, the building houses an annexe of the town hall. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Awaken the impressionist within |
L'Estaque Marseille 13016 France +33 (0)8 7020 4629 http://www.estaque.com/ |
L'Estaque is a small fishing hamlet northwest of Marseille and practically unheard of to those not from these parts. The village's biggest claim to fame(apart from Robert Guédiguian's films) is the profound influence it had on Cézanne and Renoir. Cézanne and his mistress lived on Place Maleterre and created a lot of his work in L'Estaque. Even if one isn't into art, it's great to wander around comparing his paintings with the actual sites at which they were painted. Given the L'Estaque never features on a tourist map, the cafes by the sea and nature at its best can all be enjoyed without battling through crowds or having to pay through your nose. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Pride in the past |
Rue Méry Marseille 13002 France |
Located near the Accoules bell tower, the Hôtel-Dieu was built in the 12th Century. It was formerly known as the Hôpital Saint-Esprit as it once served as a hospice in the old part of the city. The building - which has been enlarged several times - reached its definitive form in 1866, as a result of works undertaken by the nephew of the great architect H. Mansart. Its beautiful staircase was designed by architect Esprit Brun. This maginificent hospital building demonstrates the importance which has been accorded to medicine in Marseille since the time of Antiquity. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dominique PIPET |
 Photo: Mathias Barba |
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The oldest house in Marseilles |
Grand-Rue Marseille 13002 France |
Built in 1535 for the wives of Cabre, this is the oldest house in Marseilles. The main part of the Medieval residence was destroyed in the devastation of 1423. As a result, you will notice a mixture of styles incorporating both Louis XII and Renaissance. The building is situated in the old town, near Rue de la République (one of Marseilles' largest streets dating back to Imperial times) and the Vieux-Port. b>Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Second Empire architecture |
Place Félix-Baret Marseille 13282 France |
The Hôtel de la Préfecture stands tall amid Rue Saint-Férréol, not far from the city centre and just steps away from the U.S. Consulate. An imposing building (7200 m2), it was modeled on the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. Under the orders of De Maupas, leading Prefect of the Second Empire, it was designed by architect Martin and constructed between 1861 and 1866. Statues and medallions representing great Provençal figures adorn the immense façades. The private apartments within have accommodated several French Presidents over the years as well as sovereigns from abroad. Outside, the expansive square decorated with jet fountains and a large underground car park are 20th-Century additions to the Place de la Préfecture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Monastery turned museum |
2, rue de la Charité Marseille 13002 France +33 491 14 5880 |
La Vielle Charité is an outstanding example of religious architecture from 17th-century France. Designed by Pierre Puget, the King's architect and also native to the area, it was constructed between 1671-1745 as a refuge for the city's orphans and beggars. Today it is a multidisciplinary centre promoting science and culture, including the Museum of Mediterranean Archeology and the Museum of African, Oceanic, and Amerindian Arts. The rectangular form of the buildings comprises four wings which open onto a courtyard, of which the centrepiece is a beautiful domed chapel in Italian baroque style. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: rododingdong_Bo2Nard |
 Photo: Nathan Kendall |
 Photo: rododingdong_Bo2Nard |
 Photo: Véronick |
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 Photo: Thomas Estano |
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Egyptian culture |
Rond-Point de Mazargues Marseille 13009 France +33 491 39 3333 |
This copy of the Luxor obelisk erected in Paris is the work of Penchaud. Scultped in stone from Cassis, it dates back to 1811 and is located at the juncture of Boulevard Michelet and Boulevard du Redon. The obelisk was made fashionable by Napoleon, upon returning from his Egyptian campaign. This one was successfully moved in its entirety from Place Castellane to Mazargues. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Opera lives on |
2, rue Molière Marseille 13001 France +33 491 55 0070 |
This grandiose theatre of music and dance, constructed in the 18th Century in the reign and style of Louis XVI, was transformed into an opera house in the early 1800s. Ravaged by fire in 1919, all that remained was the Neoclassical peristyle and the outer walls. It was rebuilt by architects Castel and Ebrard in 1924 in art-déco style, with a seating capacity of 1830. The building is indeed unique in terms of style and it is a shrine to operatic theatre in France. Performances are regularly staged here by the National Ballet, and one Friday each month you can attend recitals by the National Operatic Society in the foyer. There is a bar and restaurant on the premises, and guided tours are organised by the Tourist Information Office. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Carman |
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A place for reflection |
Chemin de la Nerthe Marseille 13016 France |
Take the 7km walk to the small chapel of Notre-Dame de la Nerthe, re-named Notre-Dame de la Galline from the Provençal word for "hen". The Chemin de la Nerthe, set amid an enchanting pine grove at the foot of the hill, leads you up to a captivating view of Marseilles' roadways and islands. The chapel is still a site of pilgrimage where, on 8th September, worshippers come to venerate the Madone à la poule - a sculpture of the Virgin and Child belonging to the 14th Century, depicting the baby Jesus sitting on Mary's lap and carrying a white hen. Built in the 11th century, the chapel was restored in 1985 and houses a collection of thanksgiving offerings going back to the 17th Century. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stefan de Vries |
 Photo: Alin Boboiciov |
 Photo: Oliver Waine |
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 Photo: Marco Altafini |
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 Photo: Robert van der Knaap |
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 Photo: Helen Reid |
 Photo: Darrell Williams |
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Imposing splendor |
Place de la Major Marseille 13002 France +33 491 90 5357 |
This Roman-Byzantine cathedral was built in the middle of the 19th Century by Léon Vaudoyer, on the remains of the ancient Roman-Provençal "Major" building which dates back to the 12th Century.With a capacity of 3000, it is the largest cathedral in France since the Middle Ages and inside, the marble slabs, impressive porphyry columns and mosaics reflect the cathedral's true splendor, complemented by magnificent altars from the 12th and 15th centuries, and earthenware from the Della Robbia workshop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Frédéric BLANC |
 Photo: Pancras van der Vlist |
 Photo: Jennifer chandler |
 Photo: lougraou |
 Photo: Claire Duvivier |
 Photo: dominique hugon |
 Photo: Claude Babolat |
 Photo: Dan from Mars |
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The lively old town |
Place de Lenche Marseille 13002 France |
One of the city's oldest districts, the Panier is where the ancient Phocaeans first settled and founded the city of Massilia. Using the 18th-century Hôtel-Dieu and Notre Dame des Accoules church bell tower (17th-19th century) as reference points, these lead to the foot of Montée des Accoules - a series of steep flights of steps typical of old Marseilles - which lead right to the heart of the district and pedestrians' paradise. Once home to the ancient city's Greek agora (a public open space used for assemblies and markets), Place de Lenche still bustles with life and has its own market, restaurants and theater. At the summit of the old town is Place des Moulins, which in the 16th century lived up to its name with no less than fifteen flour mills. These days its fountain and school help maintain its village square tranquility and charm. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Monica |
 Photo: Janez JP |
 Photo: guillaumeseverin |
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Event Space Extraordinaire |
Parc Chanot Marseille 13266 France +33 4 91 76 16 00 http://www.parc-chanot.com |
The Parc Chanot covers 17 hectares (42 acres) of land with landscaped greenery, pleasant paths, ample parking, and constant events. It is situated only five minutes from Mediterranean beaches and the calanques, geological formations best described as Mediterranean fjords which are found almost exclusively along the southern coast of France. With its Palais des Congrès, Parc des Expositions, and Palais des Arts, the Parc Chanot can accommodate almost any event imaginable. See website for details on the rental of venues and current event scheduling at the park. 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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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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Pomègues and Rotonneau islands |
7, quai des Belges (Cie G.A.C.M.) Marseille 13001 France +33 491 55 5009 |
Just off the coast of Marseilles, the islands of Pomègues and Ratonneau, connected by a sea wall, present an arid, windswept landscape where sea birds seek refuge. The rugged contours of the coastline are broken up by rocky inlets, fine sandy beaches and small coves. On Ratonneau you can see the Neoclassical chapel, and the Hôpital Caroline, designed by architect Penchaud, where in centuries gone by, those who had contracted yellow fever were kept in quarantine before being allowed access to the city. Take time to appreciate the unrestricted, breathtaking view of Marseilles - a vantage point that only the islands can offer! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Socco Sibats |
 Photo: sam72t |
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Succession of statues |
Avenue de Hambourg Marseille 13008 France |
Le Pouce is a marvellous gilded bronze sculpture created by César in 1988. It can be found near the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Bonneveine shopping center, by a roundabout very close to the sea. The sculpture sits more precisely between two roundabouts. The first is Professeur de Vernejoul Roundabout, where the 15m tall Mât des Fédérés statue built by Daniel Burien stands to commemorate the 500 federalists who defended Paris in 1792. The second, is the Bonnefon Roundabout, which is home to the One O'Clock statue, created by a young sculptor named Mark di Suvero from New York. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: pipoboy1313 |
 Photo: Chrystèle Gonçalves |
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Unique sculpture |
Corniche Kennedy Marseille 13007 France |
Situated on Promenade Kennedy, this immense ship's propeller made of bronze was erected in 1971, in memory of those repatriated from North Africa. It was created by Marseillaise sculptor César to mark the exodus of the early 1960s which flowed into the city. As you look at the sculpture, your gaze is led from the unusual shape towards the horizon, and beyond, to the other shores of the Mediterranean. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Architectural emblem |
La Gare St-Charles (Boulevard d'Athenes) Marseille 13001 France |
In 1908, Marseilles' town council launched a project for architects to design a monumental stairway outside the station, the contract being awarded to architects Serres and Arnal. The construction of the staircase which dominates the city with its 104 steps was undertaken between 1925 and 1927, and the inauguration took place a year later in 1928 (the station itself was opened in 1848) with the arrival of then President of the Republic - Gaston Doumergue.Adorned with statues which depict the glories of France's African and Asian colonies, evoking Marseilles' commercial past, the stairway is of both historical and architectural importance and has become part of the city's heritage. Indeed, scenes from Jacques Deray's film Borsalino (1970) were filmed on its steps. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Olivier BOURGOIN |
 Photo: Rima |
 Photo: Ben Parsons |
 Photo: 365photos.free.fr |
 Photo: Kar Wai Ng |
 Photo: Liesbeth Bosschaert |
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Fortifying the town |
Quai du Port Marseille 13002 France +33 491 13 8900 (office du Tourisme) |
Standing at the southern entrance to the Vieux-Port on the north bank, Fort Saint-Jean was built to protect the old town. Dating back to the end of the 12th Century, it is named after the religious order of Saint-Jean-de-Jerusalem. The square Roy René tower was added to the port side of the fort in the 15th Century, and the look-out tower was added to the seaward side in the 18th Century. Exhibitions and visits to the Roy René tower are regularly organized. The Tourist Office will be happy to provide information on alternative tours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: jochlenw |
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 Photo: Knut Klinkhammer |
 Photo: Patrick-Alain Proute |
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 Photo: Florent Carnoy |
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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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Copy of Michelangelo's "David" |
Promenade Georges-Pompidou Marseille 13008 France |
At the roundabout on Prado Beach, where Avenue du Prado and Promenade Georges Pompidou meet, stands an imposing statue around 5m tall. It is a copy of Michelangelo's famous "David" in Carrara marble, and was presented to the city by marble sculptor Jules Cantini in 1903. Created between 1501 and 1504, "David" was the largest marble scuplture created since Antiquity. It was placed at the entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio and came to symbolise Florence's supremacy over the rest of the world. It is impossible not to admire the statue of the young shepherd and slayer of Goliath, with his large, expressive hands, his sling at his side, and a body which combines great beauty, grace and athleticism. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: gilmoregoddess16 |
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Celebration of commerce |
La Canebière Marseille 13001 France |
This neo-classical palace is located on the Canebière, close to the Vieux-Port. Designed by architect Pascal Coste for Napoléon III, it houses Marseilles' Chamber of Commerce and Industry, founded in 1599, and the Maritime Museum. The façades of this splendid edifice feature an array of sculptures which were constructed to celebrate Marseilles' Golden Age of navigation and commerce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Architectural symbol |
Rue de la Prison Marseille 13002 France |
Situated in the very heart of the city, the house boasts a striking façade of diamond-shaped stones and a beautifully sculptured staircase. Built by a wealthy Marseilles merchant between 1570 and 1576, it is a fine example of 16th Century civil architecture. It was inspired by the palaces of the Renaissance, in particular the Diamond Palace in Ferrare, Italy. Today the building houses a museum dedicated to the old town of Marseilles. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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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 |
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Symbol of power |
Quai du Port (Place de l'Hôtel de ville) Marseille 13002 France +33 442 91 9000 |
Set on the right bank of the old port, the town hall which was built in 1656, is a beautiful example of the civil architecture of the period. The town council—representing power and democracy—has been meeting here since the Middle Ages. Today, it houses the offices of the mayor, municipal councilors and other administrative offices. Its stately presence is a symbol of power—from both the past and the present. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jennifer Ennis |
 Photo: Rose Iksic |
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Picturesque little village |
Office du Tourisme Marseille France +33 491 13 8900 |
Set in the 11th arrondissement to the south-east of Marseilles, La Treille is a small, picturesque village home to some 300 inhabitants known as Treillans. It was made famous by the playwright, poet, story-teller and film-maker Marcel Pagnol, through the many film adaptations of his works such as Jofroi (1933), Cigalon (1935), Jean de Florette and Manon des Sources, The Baker's Wife and Angèle. You can relive the stories by visiting the village's square, its fountain (built in 1870) and its church. Start by calling at the small cemetery at the entrance of the village where Marcel Pagnol was laid to rest in 1974, then follow the footsteps of the young Marcel, discovering the places described in his books. These sights have drummed up an enormous amount of interest: every year thousands of people come to visit them on guided tours organised by the Tourist Information Office of Aubagne (Pagnol's birthplace). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jean-Baptiste PUIG |
 Photo: jean luc RENAUT |
 Photo: jean luc RENAUT |
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Gateway to the city |
Place Jules Guesde Marseille 13003 France |
Modelled on the ancient Arc d'Orange, this monument was constructed by Penchaud in 1823 to commemorate the victories of the French Revolution and the First Empire, and as a tribute to the glory of the Republic, the Consulate, and the Empire. With its inscriptions and bas-reliefs, and sculpture by David d'Angers and Ramey, the arch marks the old entrance to the city. Admission: Free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: dannyman |
 Photo: Rex McGregor |
 Photo: milpictures |
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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 |
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Home of "Olympique Marseille" |
3, Boulevard Michelet Marseille 13008 France +33 0491 765 609 http://www.om.net/ |
The stadium was built in 1937 to the design of architect Henri Ploquin in time for the 1938 World Cup. Inaugurated by H.Tasso, then Mayor of Marseilles, the elliptical-shaped stadium has a capacity of 35,000; it was the biggest construction project of the time in France. Enlarged for the 1998 World Cup by architects Buffi, Averous, and Varvitsky, it is currently the second largest stadium in France being able to hold 60,000 spectators. It is Marseilles' shrine to football and of course home to local team Olympique Marseille who celebrated their centenary in 1999. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Stéphane Delbecque |
 Photo: Stéphane Delbecque |
 Photo: stephdeo |
 Photo: tinder' |
 Photo: pit.maureen |
 Photo: Marco Ferrando |
 Photo: SnoopyOM |
 Photo: Alexia Pitet |
 Photo: Martin Lassen |
 Photo: lyskamm826767 |
 Photo: chablis2008 |
 Photo: oliat31 |