Old Port of Marseille

The Vieux-Port de Marseille is the beating heart of the city, a place that combines history, culture, and daily life in a vibrant and dynamic embrace. Founded by the Greeks of Phocaea in 600 BC, the old port of Marseille is the oldest in France and one of the oldest in the Mediterranean. This fascinating place has witnessed millennia of trade, conquests, and cultural exchanges, becoming an undisputed symbol of the city. The history of the Vieux-Port is closely linked to the evolution of Marseille itself. Originally, the Greeks used it as a natural harbor for their ships, benefiting from its strategic location that allowed easy access to Mediterranean trade routes. With the arrival of the Romans, Marseille became an important commercial hub and the port was expanded and fortified to support increasingly intense traffic. During the Middle Ages, the Vieux-Port continued to thrive, becoming the center of economic and political power in Marseille. Merchants from all over Europe and beyond came to exchange valuable goods such as spices, fabrics, and metals. In the 16th century, Marseille became part of the Kingdom of France and the Vieux-Port was further developed to meet the needs of the growing French naval power. The strategic importance of the Vieux-Port did not go unnoticed during the wars that swept through Europe. During World War II, the port suffered heavy bombings by the Allied forces, aiming to target the infrastructure used by the Germans. Much of the port was destroyed, but at the end of the conflict, Marseille began a long process of reconstruction and rebirth. Today, the Vieux-Port is a meeting place for the people of Marseille and tourists, who can admire the numerous boats moored and enjoy a walk along the quays. The area is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and bars that offer a spectacular view of the port, making every visit an unforgettable experience. Among the culinary specialties that can be enjoyed in these establishments, bouillabaisse, a typical fish soup of Marseille cuisine, is undoubtedly the most renowned. One of the main attractions of the Vieux-Port is the fish market, which takes place every morning on the Quai des Belges. Here, fishermen sell the catch of the day directly from their boats, offering an authentic and picturesque experience to visitors. This market is an important local tradition dating back centuries, and continues to be a reference point for those wishing to buy fresh fish and seafood products. From a political and social point of view, the Vieux-Port has always played a crucial role in the life of the city. It has been the stage for numerous historical events, from popular uprisings to national celebrations. In 1792, it was here that the Marseille volunteers first sang “La Marseillaise,” the French national anthem, before marching to Paris to support the French Revolution. The Vieux-Port has undergone several urban transformations over time. The last major redevelopment was completed in 2013, with a project by architect Norman Foster. The intervention involved the pedestrianization of much of the area, the creation of green spaces, and the construction of a mirrored roof, known as “Ombrière,” which reflects the surrounding environment and provides shelter from the sun. This project has made the Vieux-Port even more accessible and enjoyable for visitors, while preserving its historical character.