“Giant sardine blocked the port in 1780?” Let me tell you about Impasse Matheron. It is a street that whispers tales of Marseille. This isn’t just any street. Impasse Matheron is a slice of old Marseille.
Impasse Matheron is located near Boulevard Matheron. You can reach Boulevard Matheron by bus or metro. Bus lines 38, 42, 6, and 9 stop nearby. Metro line M1 also provides access. The closest bus stop to Boulevard Matheron is Montolivet Matheron. It is a four-minute walk away. The nearest metro station is Frais Vallon. It’s about a nine-minute walk.
Marseille itself boasts a rich history. Founded by Greek mariners around the 7th century BC. Marseille is the oldest city in France. It’s also the second largest. Over 860000 people call it home. That’s quite a contrast to Paris’s two million residents.
Marseille’s port is the biggest in France. It has been a vital trade hub for centuries. The city is also known for its football. Olympique de Marseille is a legendary team. It won the UEFA Champions League in 1993.
Even coffee’s arrival in France has a Marseille connection. A ship from Alexandria first brought it here. This was around 1644.
Do you know about the legend of the giant sardine? People say it blocked the port in 1780. It was actually a ship named “Sartine”.
Marseille is also the sunniest city in France. It gets over 2900 hours of sunshine each year.
Though Marseille is old it had to face tough times. The Nazis destroyed the Old Port during World War II. Fernand Pouillon rebuilt it in 1948.
Impasse Matheron may seem like a simple street. It connects to a vibrant history. A history of trade and legends. A history of sun and football. Keep exploring. You’ll find more hidden gems in Marseille.