Marseille | France

Marseille is the oldest city in France and its second-largest metropolis. Founded as the Greek colony of Massalia around 600 BC, it remains a critical Mediterranean gateway. In 2026, the city is defined by a significant transition toward sustainable "green" urbanism and the expansion of its transit infrastructure.

Historical Timeline

600 BC: Founded by Phocean Greeks. Legend says the city began with the marriage of the Greek sailor Protis to the Celtic princess Gyptis.

17th Century: Louis XIV reinforced the city’s defenses with Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas, purposely aiming cannons at the city to suppress local rebellions.

19th Century: The industrial boom led to the construction of grand monuments like the Palais Longchamp and the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde.

2013: Marseille served as the European Capital of Culture, triggering a massive regeneration of the waterfront and the opening of the MuCEM.

Urban Layout & Districts

The city is divided into 16 arrondissements, radiating from the Old Port.

Le Vieux-Port (Old Port): The historic and social heart. In 2026, the area is largely pedestrianized and serves as the hub for ferries to the islands.

Le Panier: The oldest neighborhood, north of the Old Port. A maze of steep alleys, street art, and artisan boutiques.

La Joliette: The modern business district and site of the "Euroméditerranée" project, featuring contemporary high-rises and shopping.

Noailles: Known as "the belly of Marseille," this vibrant district is home to a famous daily market and a high concentration of North African and Mediterranean grocers.

Top Landmarks

Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde: A Neo-Byzantine basilica perched on the city's highest point, topped by a 10-meter gilded statue of the Virgin Mary.

MuCEM (Museum of Civilizations of the Europe and the Mediterranean): A modern architectural landmark linked to the historic Fort Saint-Jean by a high-altitude footbridge.

Château d'If: A 16th-century fortress and prison on a nearby island, famously featured in Alexandre Dumas’s The Count of Monte Cristo.

Cathédrale La Major: An immense 19th-century cathedral built in a distinct striped Romano-Byzantine style.

Unité d'Habitation (Cité Radieuse): Le Corbusier’s modernist "vertical city," a UNESCO World Heritage site and a landmark of 20th-century architecture.

Transportation & Infrastructure (2026)

Tramway Expansion: As of early 2026, the T3 line extensions are operational, linking the city center to the northern suburbs (Capitaine Gèze) and southern districts (La Gaye).

Metro Modernization: The network is currently completing the rollout of Neomma automatic trains, which are driverless and 17% more energy-efficient.

Maritime Shuttles (La Navette): Seasonal boats connect the Old Port to the seaside neighborhoods of Pointe Rouge and Les Goudes, as well as the Frioul Islands.

Low Emission Zone (ZFE): Since 2024, strict regulations are in place; Crit’Air 3 and higher vehicles are restricted from the city center to improve air quality.

Safety & Environment

The Calanques National Park: A strictly protected area of limestone cliffs and turquoise coves. In 2026, mandatory reservation systems are in place for popular spots like Sugiton to prevent over-tourism and erosion.

Urban Heat Mitigation: The city is currently implementing its "Tree Plan," aiming to plant thousands of mature trees to create "cool islands" and shaded pedestrian corridors.

Safety: While tourist areas are well-monitored, standard urban precautions are advised in the northern arrondissements and around the Saint-Charles station at night.

Local Cost Index (2026)

Facts & Legends

Legend says the "Sardine that blocked the port of Marseille" was actually a ship named The Sartine, which ran aground in 1780, causing a massive maritime traffic jam. A verified historical fact: Marseille is the birthplace of the French National Anthem, La Marseillaise; it earned its name because it was sung by volunteer troops from Marseille as they marched into Paris in 1792.