Marseille is the third largest metropolitan
area (after Paris and Lyon) and largest commercial port in France and is
located on the south east coast, on the Mediterranean Sea. This vibrant and multi-cultural city is the
oldest in France, founded in 600 BC by the Greeks from Phocaea.
Marseille is
known throughout the world as a hub for culture and the arts. In fact, many movies have been filmed or set
in Marseille over the years, including A Girl in Every Port (1928), The French COnnection (1971), The Bourne Identity
(2002), and Count of Monte Cristo
(2002). But Marseille s main cultural
attraction is the Opera, constructed at the end of the 18th
century. Unfortunately, a large part of
the structure was destroyed by fire in 1919 but has since been restored.
There is plenty to see and do in
Marseille. Most of the attractions and
shopping areas are located in the 1st, 2nd, 6th and
7th arrondissements. Some of the highlights
include the Old Port (Vieux-Port), the main harbour and marina for
Marseille. It is guarded by two
impressive forts (Fort St Nicolas and Fort Saint Jean) and is one of the best
places to eat in the city. While at the
port, also visit the Phare de Sainte Marie lighthouse. La Vieille Charite in the Panier is an interesting building designed
by the Puget brothers and is now home to a gallery of African and Asian
art. The Palais de la Bourse is a 19th
century building that is home to the the chamber of commerce, the first such institution
in France. Shopaholics will likely find
their way to the Centre Bourse and the adjacent rue St Ferreol district for
Marseille s main shopping area.