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Marseille
In the Provence region of the south of France, Marseille has the distinction of being the second largest city of the country as well as one of its most important seaports.
The history of the town cannot be separated from the history of the seas it hugs. In fact, travelers have often claimed the most famous view of the city was the sight of Marseilles from the sea. Against a semicircle of bare countryside and hills, Marseille a gleaming white city that proudly shines atop it. It is often said that arriving to Marseille through the Vieux-Port on a summer evening is something to behold.
The Le Vieux Port (old harbour) is a Marseille tradition that visitors should expereince, if only to get a better feel of life in this town. At the harbour, guests can witness the fish auction, by local fishermen who come to sell their freshly caught stock. The famous Canebière avenue, the principal thoroughfare, is one of the great avenues of the world, and accessible from the harbor.
The even older harbour from ancient Roman and Phonecian times is also accessible at the Musée des Docks romains (Archéologie-Graffiti-Lapidaire).
The Notre Dame de la Garde is the large church which overlooks the city, serving as a religious icon. In fact, old fishermen used to have their boats blessed in this church to bring favor from the sea before setting out. This tie to the sea and tradition is evidenced by many of the boat models that still hang suspended within the church rafters.
For those wanting a more leisurely exploration away from the sea, guests are invited to visit Le Panier, the name of the oldest area of the town. The Vielle Charité, a wonderful old monument, now hosting museums and exhibitions, holds center stage here. Parc Borély (Borely park) also invites guest for quiet walks, as well as more lively evening delights at Escale Borely once the sun sets against the Mediterranean.
The trendier part of the city features bookstores, cafes, fountains and a children’s playground at the Le Cours Julien and La plaine. Locals look forward to the Plaine market every Thursday and Saturday mornings, who reward early visitors with fresh produce and goods.
