Consider this a gateway to the soul of Marseille, the Quai des Anglais. For over 2600 years, this natural harbor has been the city’s lifeline. Today, it is a vibrant public space where locals and tourists mingle.
The Old Port of Marseille, or Vieux Port, sits at the end of the Canebière. This major street has a fascinating story. In the Middle Ages, hemp grew here. It supplied rope for mariners. Hence, the name Canebière.
Imagine the year 600 BC. Greek settlers from Phocaea landed here. They established a trading post in this rocky cove. This marked the beginning of Marseille’s maritime history. The Quai des Anglais has witnessed centuries of trade. It has seen countless ships arriving and departing.
Between the 15th and 17th centuries, quays were constructed. Louis XII and Louis XIII oversaw this expansion. An important shipyard for galleons was established. The Old Port became a hub for naval power.
However, the city faced internal strife. Following a revolt, Louis XIV ordered the construction of forts. Fort St. Jean and Fort St. Nicolas guarded the harbor entrance. Their cannons pointed towards the city. They aimed to deter local uprisings.
The arsenal des galères was notorious. It was located on the left side of the Old Port. Galley slaves were branded with the letters GAL. This marked them for life in the royal war fleet.
In 1854, the Old Port could accommodate over 1,000 ships. Around 18,000 merchant ships passed through each year. They carried 20 million barrels of freight. But the harbor’s shallow depth posed problems. Steamships needed deeper docks. La Joliette became the new site for these.
World War II brought devastation. In 1943, the Nazis dynamited much of the old town. They demolished the aerial ferry. This “transbordeur” was an engineering marvel. It rivaled the Eiffel Tower. This event became known as the “Battle of Marseille”.
After the war, Fernand Pouillon led the reconstruction. New harbor moles and quays were built. Port activities shifted to La Joliette. Over time, installations extended further. The Grand Port Maritime de Marseille emerged.
Today, the Old Port serves as a marina. It is a terminal for local boat trips. A local fish market thrives here. In 2013, the Old Port was largely pedestrianized. It became a large public square. Michel Desvigne Paysagistes and Foster and Partners led the renovation.
Notice the reflective stainless steel canopy. It stands at the eastern edge of the port. This pavilion shelters events and markets. Its mirrored surface reflects the water and activity.
The Old Port has inspired many artists and writers. Alexandre Dumas set “The Count of Monte Cristo” here. Marcel Pagnol filmed “Marius, Fanny and César” here. Even James Bond visited in “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service”.
Around the Old Port, you can find many points of interest. St. Victor’s Abbey is one of the oldest Christian sites in France. The Phare de Sainte Marie is a lighthouse. The Canebière starts at the Quai des Belges. The Hôtel de Ville is the town hall. A historic ferry plies between opposite sides.
The Old Port is more than just a harbor. It is a living testament to Marseille’s rich history. Take a moment to soak in the atmosphere of the Quai des Anglais. Let the stories of this ancient port captivate you.