It is the oldest city in France (it was founded a whopping 2,600 years ago) and the second largest in the country in terms of population. This year, in addition, Marseille has the recognition of having been chosen European Capital of Culture, together with the Slovak city of Kosice, with whom he shares that distinction.
And it is that Marseille, in the region of Provence, is a city cosmopolitan and intercultural. Its geographical position and its Mediterranean roots have made it a true Culture crucible. Visiting it will be quite an experience.
The charm of the mix
Marseille, a port and Mediterranean city where they exist, celebrates its cultural capital this year with a complete and varied program. No less than 74 projects will be developed, ranging from exhibitions to shows, through workshops, talks, colloquia, etc. In these activities all the artistic disciplines: contemporary dance, theater, gastronomy, etc.
But, in addition, Marseille has a lot to offer, already on its own. In the city you can visit monuments like the Cathedral of Santa María la Mayor, from the 19th century, or the Saint Victor Abbey. A great way to get to know Marseille is to do it on the tourist train, which runs through the city with two very interesting itineraries. The first one goes from old Port to the church of Notre Dame de la Garde, passing by the Abbey of San Víctor or the Palace of Faro, among other places. The second tour winds through The Panier, the old quarter of Marseille, to the cathedral of Santa María la Mayor. Both are highly recommended.
But Marseille is also committed to the future and is undergoing a great change, in some ways. Thus, you will be able to see the new architectural projects that the city is hosting, such as the MUCEM (Museum of the Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean), the CMA CGM Tower (137 meters high, created by Zaha Hadid) or the renovation of the Old Port.
Marseille becomes European Capital of Culture 2013 (April 2024)
- Marseilles
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