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Marseille鈥檚 Hidden Secrets: 40 Facts You Didn鈥檛 Know

More than just its sun-drenched beaches and charming harbor, Marseille, the brilliant jewel of the French Riviera, has much to offer. A compelling world of undiscovered mysteries lurks beyond the picture-perfect landscapes and busy boulevards, just waiting to be discovered by any inquisitive traveler. Marseille possesses secrets that have been kept secret for generations, from the mysterious legends of its maritime history to the maze-like lanes of the Le Panier neighborhood.

Explore the bustling markets where culinary delights meld with the cosmopolitan fabric of the city and the secret caves of Calanque, where nature鈥檚 majesty meets history鈥檚 mystery. Discover the stories of lost treasures and immerse yourself in Marseille鈥檚 thriving street art scene. Marseille鈥檚 secrets are a fusion of modern mystique and old-world charm. Let鈥檚 take you through the Marseille鈥檚 Hidden Secrets;

1. The City was Founded by the Greeks

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France has several cities that were founded by old dynasties that ruled and dominated the world. Marseille is among the cities in France that were founded and built by one of the superpowers in those days.

The city was founded as the Greek colony of Marseille. It was mostly populated by Greek settlers who originated from Phocaea which is modern-day Foca, Turkey. Marseille then became the preeminent Greek polis.

2. Marseille is the Oldest City in France

Greek sailors from the Asia Minor harbor city of Phocaea created Marseille around 600 BCE. Marseille is the oldest city in France as a result of this early settlement. The city鈥檚 current name derives from the sailors鈥� moniker for their new settlement, Massalia. The Phoenicians may have arrived in Marseille considerably earlier than the Greek voyagers, according to certain archaeological evidence.

3. This is the Third-Largest Metropolitan Area in France

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After Paris and Lyon, Marseille is the third-largest metropolitan area in France. The Calanques are a rough coastal region interspersed by little fjord-like inlets, and they may be found to the east, beginning in the little fishing community of Callelongue on the outskirts of Marseille and extending as far as Cassis.

The city of Toulon, the French Riviera, and the Sainte-Baume, a mountain range rising 1,147 meters (3,763 feet) from a forest of deciduous trees, are all located further east. The 1,011-meter Mont Sainte Victoire is located beyond the low Garlaban and Etoile mountain ranges to the north of Marseille. The historic artist鈥檚 community of l鈥橢staque is located west of Marseille, and farther west are the C么te Bleue, the Gulf of Lion, and the Camargue region in the Rh么ne delta.

4. The Old Port is Part of Marseille

Greek immigrants from Phocaea arrived at the Lacydon, a rocky Mediterranean cove that is now the location of Marseille鈥檚 Old Port, in 600 BC. They established an emporium, or trading center, in the hills to the north of the beach. The Old Port in Marseille was the hub of maritime activity up until the nineteenth century. The Canebi猫re, the name of Marseille鈥檚 major street, is derived from the cultivation of hemp for the local manufacture of rope for mariners on land at the further end of the harbor during the Middle Ages.

5. Marseille has a Connection with Napoleon

The city of Napoleon has great connections with several renowned historic people. Among them is the great military figure Napoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon was educated at the Royal College of Marseille. His Family built several homes in Marseille too.

6. The City has Several Historic Churches

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In the middle of its bustling streets and stunning Mediterranean scenery, Marseille is home to several breathtaking cathedrals that bear witness to centuries of dedication and artistic skill. The majority of these ancient churches feature stunning exterior and interior architecture.

Some of these historic churches and cathedrals in Marseille include: Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde, this Neo-Byzantine cathedral was built in 1864 on top of the ruins of an old fort. Beautiful mosaics, a bell tower over 100 feet tall, and a copper Madonna and Child statue are all features of the church.

Cath茅drale de la Major, a cathedral formerly known as Cath茅drale Sainte-Marie-Majeure de Marseille, is a magnificent Catholic cathedral and a French national monument. The original cathedral was built in the 12th century, although the building has since been expanded and added to.

Abbaye Saint-Victor was a former Roman monastery. Victor of Marseilles was a French soldier who became a martyr, and he inspired the name of the Abbaye Saint-Victor. The history of the abbey began in the first century, in 415, when a French monk created two monasteries, one for each gender. However, as Saint Victor鈥檚 existence is only documented as far back as the fifth century, it is still unknown exactly when the abbey was founded.

脡glise des R茅form茅s, this Roman Catholic church, also known as 脡glise Saint Vincent de Paul, replaced a destroyed chapel and reformed Augustinian monastery. The construction took over 30 years, but it was completed in 1886. Neo-gothic architecture can be seen in the two 70-foot towers that surround the entryway.

7. There are Incredible Historic Forts in Marseille

Other than the historic churches and cathedrals, there are incredible historic forts in Marseille. Here are some of them, Fort Saint-Jean, when facing the Vieux-Port, this fort is situated to the right. It is a part of a military complex whose history is inextricably linked to Marseille. During the 12th-century Crusades, it was a former commandery of the Hospitaliers of Saint-Jean and the starting place for the troops going to Jerusalem.

Fort Saint-Nicolas, which is on the left side of Marseille鈥檚 Vieux-Port and is next to the Pharo Park, was first built to defend itself against the city鈥檚 residents and their rebellious spirit than it was from outside assaults. Following a string of political protests and uprisings, Louis XIV ordered the construction of Fort Saint-Nicolas in 1660 to guarantee the defense of Marseille鈥檚 roadstead against a marine attack. The Sun King used the structure to exert authority over a long-time enemy-hostile city.

8. The City Boasts of Mediterranean Weather

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Marseille boasts of Mediterranean weather. The city experiences hot, dry summers because of the dry winds flowing from the Sahara during those months, and cold, mild winters with modest rainfall because of the wet westerly breezes.

The coldest months are December, January, and February, with average daytime temperatures of 12 掳C (54 掳F) and night-time lows of 4 掳C (39 掳F). The hottest months are July and August, with average high temperatures of 27 掳C (81 掳F) in the city by the sea in July 28-30 掳C (82-86 掳F) during the day, and 19 掳C (66 掳F) at night in Marignane airport (35 km (22 mi) from Marseille).

9. Marseille is One of the Most Diverse Cities in France

The city of Marseille also boasts one of the most diverse cities in France. It has a significant immigrant population compared to other cities in France. For example, Jewish, Greek, and Armenian communities each have their community leaderships that are recognized informally.

10. The Famous Novel, The Count of Monte Cristo is Set in Marseille

French novelist Alexandre Dumas wrote the adventure novel, The Count of Monte Cristo. It is one of the author鈥檚 most well-known works and was finished in 1844. During the historical events of 1815鈥�1838, the story is set in France specifically Marseille, Italy, islands in the Mediterranean, and the Levant. It started soon before the Hundred Days era, when Napoleon returned to power following his exile, and lasted until Louis-Philippe鈥檚 rule in France.

11. Marseille is Home to the Stunning Calanques

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鈥楥alanques鈥� means 鈥榬ocky inlet鈥� in French. The Calanques of Marseille are breathtakingly gorgeous limestone cliffs that pour into turquoise coves, the Mediterranean鈥檚 (far warmer) equivalent of the Norwegian fjords. However, these are not just any rocks.

The Calanques National Park (Parc National des Calanques), is a 200-square-mile haven for hikers, boaters, swimmers, and nature enthusiasts. It is made up of a total of 26 of them. Europe鈥檚 largest peri-urban park, which sprawls across Marseille and Cassis, is seductive year-round.

12. The Regional Dish of Marseille is Bouillabaisse

The regional dish of Marseille is Bouillabaisse. Originally, Marseille fishermen used the bony rockfish they couldn鈥檛 sell to restaurants or markets to make bouillabaisse.

A traditional bouillabaisse contains at least three different types of fish, usually red rascasse (Scorpaena scrofa), sea robin, and European conger. It can also include European hake, monkfish, mullet, turbot, gilthead bream, and turbot. In most cases, it also includes various seafood and shellfish, such as octopus, velvet crabs, spider crabs, sea urchins, and mussels.

13. The Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations is Located in Marseille

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Also known as Mus茅e des Civilisations de l鈥橢urope et de la M茅diterran茅e in French, MUCEM is an amazing modern museum which is located in Marseille. This museum is usually devoted to civilizations from Europe and the Mediterranean region.

It is made up of a permanent collection of historical and cultural artifacts. MUCEM is one of the major attraction sites in Marseille with 8.5 million visitors touring between 2013 and 2016.

14. Notre-Dame de la Garde is the Beloved Symbol of Marseille

Notre-Dame de la Garde, often known as la Bonne M猫re (French for 鈥渢he Good Mother鈥�), is a Catholic basilica and the most beloved symbol of Marseille. It is the most visited spot in Marseille and the location of a well-known Assumption Day pilgrimage. At the highest natural point in Marseille, a 149 m (489 ft) limestone outcropping on the south side of the Old Port of Marseille, it was constructed over the ruins of an old fort.

15. The Islands of Frioul are a Gateway for Marseille

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Living within the city can be hectic at some other times. However, Marseille is a brilliant place that has a super gateway location for any visitors or tourists. The islands of Frioul make the best gateway while in Marseille. This archipelago is located 2 miles away from Marseille. It covers a total land area of approximately 200 hectares which are scenic with cool weather.

16. Marseille has One of the Most Famous Football Teams in France

Sporting activities are also major within the city of Marseille. The city has one of the major football teams in France which is FC Marseille. Since its founding in 1899, the club has won nine league championships, ten Coupe de France titles, three Coupe de la Ligue titles, three Troph茅e des Champions titles, one UEFA Champions League and one UEFA Intertoto Cup, both of which are national records. Marseille has also participated in three UEFA Europa League finals.

17. Marseille鈥檚 Fish Market is Worth Visiting

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The Vieux-Port fish market is a major attraction for tourists passing through Marseille. This fish market draws sizable crowds every morning, sometimes to buy fresh goods and other times to take pictures of the fish stalls and its unusual merchants.

Fishermen usually sell their overnight caught fish in the market. Visitors can purchase whiting, red mullet, scorpion fish, sardines, sea bream, sole, mackerel, or monkfish here, depending on the time of year and the weather. They frequently prefer to take pictures of the seafood stalls to capture their time in the city forever.

18. Explore the Panier District of Marseille

The Panier District is one of Marseille鈥檚 most popular and the oldest. It serves as a constant reminder of the turbulent past of the ancient Massalia and is situated in the city鈥檚 historic center at a short distance from the Old Port.

The original residents of Marseille constructed the ancient city to the north of Lacydon Cove. The Saint Laurent mound is in the west, the Panier mound is in the middle, and the Carmes mound is in the east of the Panier District. What makes this district more interesting is the maze of narrow streets, colorful houses, and local shops.

19. Marseille has a Strong African Cultural Influence

Located near the Mediterranean region, Marseille has a strong African cultural influence. Since the colonial eras, there has been major immigration of Africans to Marseille which has made it strongly diversified. The influence can be seen through the population, and the mixed culture in the city.

20. There鈥檚 a Scenic Seaside Road Named after a Famous American Family in Marseille

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In the city of Marseille, there is a scenic seaside road named after the famous American family, Corniche Kennedy. It was constructed in the 19th century. In the 1960s, it was enlarged to form a corbelled pedestrian promenade. Its spreading structure, which is formed of slabs resting on corbels anchored in a retaining wall or on crossing structures, has been exposed to a particularly hostile coastal environment for more than 60 years and has sustained several damages. However, this road maintains its ambiance.

21. Marseille is the Birthplace of Pastis

The city of Marseille is the birthplace of several drinks and other dishes like pasta. During his early 20s, Paul Ricard came up with Pastis in 1932.

Pastis is defined as an anise-flavored spirit with added licorice root flavor, less than 100 grams of sugar per liter, and a minimum ABV of 40% (for regular pastis) or 45% (for pastis de Marseille). Initially, Pastis was handcrafted from entire herbs, but the modern version is combined with alcohol and other flavors.

22. The City is Renowned for its Vibrant Street Art Scene

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Local street artists utilize graffiti as an outlet for their creativity and as a way to enhance the aesthetics of Marseille. Even while some of the graffiti is political, the majority of it is purely creative. Marseille has been a strong advocate for the street art scene and even built a wall that is legal for artists to use as a canvas. This has made Marseille a particularly popular destination for fans of street art and contributed to the development of a vibrant and creative culture in the city.

23. Marseille Served as the European Capital of Culture

In 2013, Koice and Marseille shared the title of European Capital of Culture. It was chosen to 鈥渉umanize鈥� the European Union to highlight cultural variety and foster better relations among Europeans. The goal of putting culture front and center is to improve intergroup relations, boost the economy, and reposition Marseille internationally.

More than 900 cultural events were conducted during Marseille-Provence 2013 (MP2013) in Marseille and the neighboring areas. There were around 11 million visitors brought in by these cultural activities. The MuCEM, created by Rudy Ricciotti, was among the new cultural infrastructure of Marseille and its surroundings that was unveiled as part of the European Capital of Culture.

24. Marseille is Renowned as a Soap Capital

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Since the first soap producer was identified in the area of Marseille at the end of the 14th century, Marseille has been producing soap for almost 700 years. The soap industry in Marseille, which was founded in the 16th century following the Crusades, developed beyond the artisanal level.

Production could hardly keep up with demand during the start of the 17th century in the city and the surrounding area. Soaps from Genoa and Alicante were even shipped to the Port of Marseille.

However, seven factories in the city started producing almost 20,000 tonnes of goods annually in 1660. When Colbert was in charge, Marseille鈥檚 products were of such high quality that the term 鈥淢arseille soap鈥� spread throughout.

25. The Calisson is Popular in Marseille

Marseille people are in love with the Calissons. The traditional French candy, calissons are made of a homogeneous, silky, pale yellow paste of crushed almonds and candied fruit (particularly melons and oranges). It is then covered in a thin layer of royal icing. They have a marzipan-like texture, but they taste more fruity and notably melon-like. They normally measure five centimeters (two inches) in length and are almond-shaped.

26. Marseille has a Thriving Music Scene

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Even though Marseille is one of the oldest cities in France, there are many options to attend concerts that feature both traditional and contemporary music. A big element of the local culture is music, and both locals and visitors can have fun almost every week by checking out the lineups at the best venues in town. Some of the best music venues include Marseille Opera, Doc des Suds, Le Moulin, Espace Julien, and many more.

27. Enjoy Mediterranean Cuisine in Marseille

With the diverse culture and Mediterranean influences in Marseille, there is more to enjoy in the city. A visit to Marseille will make you come back especially when you get the taste of the Mediterranean cuisine served there.

Several high-end restaurants in Marseille like Grand Bar des Goudes serves several Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy cuisines like aioli with vegetables and fish, bouillabaisse, and more mouth-watering dishes in Marseille.

28. Take a Ride along the Scenic Mediterranean Coast Named after JFK

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Marseille also provides a scenic Mediterranean coast that was named after the US President, John F. Kennedy that you can take a stroll or drive through. Located along the 7th arrondissement this street is known as The Ledge of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy (in French: Corniche du pr茅sident-John-Fitzgerald-Kennedy; commonly known as La Corniche).

It stretches from the beach at Les Catalans in the city center to Promenade Georges Pompidou and the Plages du Prado in the south, where it meets the 8th arrondissement along the Mediterranean coast. This scenic area was given this name in 1963, the year John Fitzgerald Kennedy was assassinated.

29. Marseille is a Popular Destination for Diving

Marseille boasts 57 kilometers of coastline, which includes 24 kilometers of creeks. Inconspicuous coves and beaches can be found here, together with a glittering sea, seabirds soaring overhead, and the aroma of pine trees warmed by the sun.

You have access to both an underwater and on-land wild and lovely environment! In Marseille, there are a hundred distinct dive spots to explore. The Frioul and Planier islands, as well as the Riou archipelago, are the ideal locations for scuba diving. You have a lot of options, including soaring cliff faces, arches, caves, and enigmatic wrecks.

30. Popular Films and TV Shows has been Shot in Marseille

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The cinema scene and Marseille have long shared a close bond. Currently, the city is barely behind Paris in terms of the quantity of film shootings. Marseille is a preferred location for filmmakers looking for sunshine and blue skies because of its light and distinctive scenery.

More and more national and international directors are coming to the city to have a share of the scenes in their films. Despite the epidemic, Marseille and its surrounding area saw 441 film shoots in 2019 and 385 in 2020.

31. The City has Strong Communist Traditions

Marseille has a long history of supporting the communist movement. This association dates back to the early 20th century when the working-class residents of the city adopted socialism and communist principles. This political convergence was fostered by Marseille鈥檚 strategic significance as a focal point for the trade and labor movements.

The communist movement鈥檚 demand for workers鈥� rights and equality brought together the different and marginalized sections of the city. Marseille developed into a hub for leftist action throughout the 20th century, with significant communist leaders emerging from its streets. With communist parties still active in local politics and the city playing a significant role in forming the larger French left-wing movement, the city鈥檚 history of radical politics and action endures.

32. The City has a History of Labor Strikes and Movements

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Important labor movements have played a vital role in Marseille鈥檚 history. Its thriving port attracted a variety of workers in the 19th and early 20th centuries, including dockworkers, sailors, and manufacturing workers. During this industrialization, which was characterized by strikes and demonstrations for better working conditions, just pay, and workers鈥� rights, the city鈥檚 labor movements gained strength.

The well-known 1935 Dockers鈥� Strike serves as a testament to resistance and produced significant labor gains. Marseille remained a hotbed of labor activism, supporting the larger French labor movement. The city鈥檚 long history of labor struggles continues to shape who it is today.

33. Marseille has been a Center for Independence Movements

The city of Marseille, which is renowned for its multicultural population and strong sense of identity, has experienced several independence movements over time. Given the sizeable Corsican minority in the city, one of the most significant was the Corsican independence movement. Marseille, where activists and organizations were situated, played a crucial part in fostering Corsican nationalism during the middle of the 20th century.

In the larger Provence-Alpes-C么te d鈥橝zur area, where Marseille is located, there have also occasionally been movements for regional autonomy. These movements highlight the distinctive economic and cultural traits of Marseille and the surrounding territories. Although none of these efforts have fully attained independence, they nonetheless represent the city鈥檚 long-standing desire for autonomy and the recognition of its own identity within France.

34. There has been Significant Political Influence of the Port of Marseille

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The historical and strategic port of Marseille, which is one of the biggest and most significant in the Mediterranean, is closely related to the city鈥檚 political power. The political landscape of the city has been significantly shaped by this maritime entrance. Because of its long history as a center of trade, immigration, and power projection, Marseille has always had significant political influence.

The port promoted economic expansion by drawing traders and businesspeople, which increased the wealth of the city. Due to its advantageous location, it served as a key hub for military and political strategy, ensuring its importance in local and national politics. The Port of Marseille still serves as a visual representation of the city鈥檚 importance in France and the Mediterranean today, having an impact on everything from trade regulations to diplomatic ties.

35. Enjoy Marseille鈥檚 Petanque Tradition

Marseille鈥檚 鈥淧茅tanque鈥� heritage is a fundamental part of the city鈥檚 culture. This well-liked game of French boules is rooted in neighborhood social life. People congregate in parks, squares, and boulevards to play competitive P茅tanque games, frequently while sipping pastis. This social activity contributes significantly to Marseille鈥檚 distinctive cultural fabric by fostering a sense of community and friendship that transcends age and background.

36. Enjoy Shopping on Canebi猫re

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Shopping at Canebi猫re in Marseille is a distinctive experience. A wide range of stores, from well-known multinational chains to independent boutiques, fill the busy strip. You鈥檙e sure to find everything on La Canebi猫re, whether you鈥檙e seeking apparel, accessories, gifts, or regional foods.

 Start at the Vieux Port area at the street鈥檚 western end. The most stylish stores can be found here, along with a few department stores. Be sure to explore the side streets as you up the hill.

These tiny lanes contain some undiscovered treasures. Be sure to visit one of the many stores selling traditional Proven莽al goods, such as olive oil, tapenade, and lavender products, if you鈥檙e shopping for mementos.

37. Marseille has Stunning Boulevards

Marseille鈥檚 boulevards are a colorful tapestry reflecting the city鈥檚 rich history and varied cultures. France鈥檚 second-largest city is centered on these broad, tree-lined boulevards, which offer a distinctive fusion of Mediterranean charm and urban activity. The most well-known, La Canebi猫re, is the city鈥檚 major boulevard and is flanked by stores, cafes, and historic sites.

The magnificent Palais Longchamp is located further down Boulevard Longchamp, which also features Neoclassical architecture. A view of the Mediterranean Sea and the city鈥檚 coastline may be had from Boulevard Prado. The boulevards of Marseille are a mesmerizing fusion of history and the present, whether they are busy with people or bathed in the golden glory of sunset.

38. The City Boasts a Wide Range of Architectural Diversity

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The diversity of Marseille鈥檚 architectural styles is a reflection of the city鈥檚 long and illustrious history as a thriving port. Marseille鈥檚 skyline is a fascinating combination of styles, with inspirations from both modern skyscrapers and ancient Greek and Roman architecture. The ancient Le Panier neighborhood features colorful, picturesque cottages, while the Old Port neighborhood boasts attractive tiny lanes and centuries-old buildings.

Grand neoclassical masterpieces like Palais Longchamp, Art Deco treasures, and modern creations like the renowned CMA CGM Tower all appear in Marseille鈥檚 architectural tapestry. The architectural allure of Marseille is defined by this fusion of old and new, influenced by the cultural melting pot of the Mediterranean and providing a visual voyage through time and culture.

39. There is a Love of Rugby in Marseille

Rugby is deeply loved in Marseille, where it has a devoted following and a long history. The Stade V茅lodrome, a renowned stadium where exciting games are held, is located in the city. Rugby is a way of life in our country, representing resilience, cooperation, and brotherhood. The close ties Marseille has to rugby reflects the city鈥檚 fortitude and passion for this beloved sport.

40. Marseille has a Connection with Historic Bakeries

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Many old bakeries, some of which have been in business for centuries, may be found in Marseille. Many of the breads and pastries available at these bakeries are specific to the area.

The Four des Navettes, established in 1781, is one of Marseille’s most renowned old bakeries. The boat-shaped biscuits called navettes, which are produced in this bakery with orange zest and anise, are well-known. Navettes are a typical delicacy from Marseille that is frequently consumed during the Christmas season.

The 1902-established Boulangerie Aixoise is yet another old bakery in Marseille. Many of the handmade breads and pastries created in this bakery use ingredients that may be found nearby.

In conclusion, Marseille鈥檚 rich history, varied architecture, and constant devotion to rugby best represent the city鈥檚 distinct appeal. This Mediterranean treasure continues to enthrall visitors with its fusion of ancient traditions, modern influences, and a friendly, passionate attitude. It has a rich past and a lively current. Marseille continues to be a city of limitless intrigue and discovery.