Marseilles was originally a Greek trading colony, then Roman, dating back 2600 years. It is France’s oldest city and second largest. Very obvious Algerian presence here, with strong Muslim visibility. The city radiates out from the old harbour which for centuries was its life-blood.
There is only one really high spot in the city, to the south and overlooking the harbour. Once a fort, it became site for a chapel in honour of Mary, and later the large basilica that now overshadows the city. Mary is seen as “guardian” or protector of the city, and several historical liberations have featured here. It is certainly the Mt Coot-tha of Marseille, giving panoramic view of the sprawling city and suburbs.
Today was my first coat-less day, and it was lovely to wander around and enjoy the warmth of a clear sunny day. I took Le Petit-Train from the quayside for a rather bumpy tour around the harbour and coastline and up to the basilica. After that I wandered a few of the downtown streets and took the subway back to my hotel. The Ibis is just a 2 minute suitcase trundle from the GTV Gare Saint Charles station. For a city of its size, Marseille is surprisingly lacking in unique tourist attractions. A zoo, a few churches, a couple of old forts are about all I can see on the walking map the hotel provides. Mind you, there are a multitude of cultural venues – opera, ballet, museums, art galleries etc.
Only a short visit, but at least I got some feel for this most ancient of French cities.
Pics are here.
1 comment:
I agree with Deb Mills that you have to get someone to take some photos of you. That waiter at the Dessang cafe could have easily taken a photo of you. Get to it.....love....pat
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