Marseille color
Marseille is the second biggest city in France and its main port. The city stands on the shore of the Lyon Gulf of the Mediterranean Sea. Marseille is the oldest city in France, moreover, it is even older than Eternal city – Rome. Greeks founded it in 600 BC.
Marseille is the leading industrial center in France, but it also boasts rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. Its rock bays - Les Calanques are considered to be a unique natural phenomenon.
The main city thoroughfare is La Canabiere Street. It stretches from the Old port to the east. Old Port is 26 centuries old and here you can feel the atmosphere and charm of the old city of Marseille.
Almost every French city has its main cathedral or church called Notre-Dame. Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde was established between 1853 and 1864 and still rises high above the city. Here you can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and Mediterranean coast. On the top of basilica there is a golden statue of virgin Maria 10 meters height. The cathedral is also known for its bronze bell.
There are some interesting museums in Marseille. For example, Centre de la Vieille Charite and Musee d’Histoire de Marseille.
The most remarkable attractions in Marseille are its narrow streets and picturesque squares. One of such places is Cours Julien – a spacious square with an outstanding fountain. The square is full of cozy cafes and bars.
If you prefer modern architecture, functionality and contemporary style, you surely shouldn’t miss Cite Radieuse – “shining city”. This 17-storey structure was built in 1940-50 by the famous French architect Le Corbusier.
Night life in Marseille is rather quiet and calm. Those who prefer big noisy parties usually go to Aux-en-Provence.
Speaking about tourist attractions in Marseille surroundings the first place that come to mind is the notorious Chateau d'If (If Castle) glorified by Alexandre Dumas in his famous novel “Count Monte-Cristo”. You can book a boat excursion there or just watch it from the highest point of the city. Usually motor-launches starts from Old Port.
An essential part of Marseille life is fairs and markets. Marseille beaches are not as good as on the Cote d’Azur, but they are comfortable and clean. Prado beach is surrounded by a nice lawn reminding of Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Pebbly beach de Love is popular among the youth. However these beaches are relatively distant from the centre of the city.
Marseille is a vivid city where life is always boiling. As a port city, it is full of immigrants from many countries, but mostly from the Northern Africa.
The historical fact Marseille is famous for is that it’s the motherland of Marseillaise – national French Anthem - Arise children of the fatherland The day of glory has arrived – these words gave power to the nation and still are known by every French citizen.
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