What if these ancient stones could talk? The Old Port of Marseille would narrate tales spanning 2600 years. This natural harbour is the beating heart of Marseille. It has been since 600 BC. Imagine Greek settlers landing in the Lacydon. It was a rocky cove. Now, it’s the site of the Old Port of Marseille.
The Old Port has been the city’s natural harbour since antiquity. Today, it is a main attraction in Marseille. The Old Port became mainly pedestrian in 2013.
Picture this. It is the Middle Ages. The far end of the port cultivates hemp. This hemp served the local manufacture of rope for mariners. This is the origin of the Canebière’s name. It is the main thoroughfare of Marseille.
Consider Louis XIV. He ordered the erection of forts. These were the forts of St Jean and St Nicolas. They guarded the harbour entrance. He also established an arsenal in the Old Port. Galley slaves were branded with GAL.
In 1854, the Old Port held 1,000 to 1,200 ships. Around 18,000 merchant ships passed through each year. They carried about 20 million barrels of freight. But the 6-meter depth became problematic for steamships.
World War II devastated the Old Port. Nazis dynamited much of the historic old town in 1943. This became known as the Battle of Marseille. Fernand Pouillon oversaw the reconstruction in 1948.
New harbour moles moved port activities out of the Old Port in the 1840s. These activities moved to the La Joliette quarter. The Old Port is now a marina. It serves as a terminal for local boat trips. You can also find a local fish market here.
Alexandre Dumas set The Count of Monte Cristo in the Old Port. Marcel Pagnol also set Marius, Fanny, and César here. You may recognise the Bar de la Marine from Love Actually. The Old Port appears in The French Connection and French Connection 2.
St. Victor’s Abbey sits on the south side of the Old Port. It is one of France’s oldest Christian worship sites. The Canebière lies at the far end of the Old Port. The Hôtel de Ville stands proudly here. A historic ferry plies between opposite sides.
The Old Port embodies Marseille’s spirit. This is the oldest port in France. It has been a tourist destination for many years. Imagine King Nannos marrying off his daughter. Protis received the cup and married Petta. From this union, Massalia was born. This is now Marseille.
In the 19th century, the Old Port was the heart of the city’s economy. Today, it is a popular marina. Visitors stroll along the quays. They admire leisure boats. Cafés and restaurants line the port.
The Old Port is a paradise for food lovers. You can enjoy Provençal cuisine here. Don’t miss the Criée. Fishermen sell their daily catch here. Savor an authentic bouillabaisse. Each restaurant has its own secret recipe.
The Old Port is a cultural hub. The Mucem stands proudly at the port’s entrance. Fort Saint-Jean offers views of the port. Cosquer Méditerranée showcases a replica of a prehistoric cave. The Marseille Soap Museum reveals the secrets of this iconic product.
A unique vessel crosses the Old Port since the 19th century. It travels between the city hall and Place aux Huiles. The Ferry Boat provides the shortest maritime route. It covers just 283 meters.
The Old Port is the perfect starting point for exploring the islands. Take a trip to the Château d’If and the Frioul Islands. The Marseille Tourist Train explores the Panier district. It also explores Notre-Dame de la Garde.
From ancient Greek settlements to modern-day attractions. The Old Port remains Marseille’s heart. Take a moment. Breathe in the salty air. Let the stories of the Vieux-Port de Marseille wash over you.