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The Vieux Port – Jewel at the heart of the city
The natural inlet, locally called a calanque, which the Phocaean navigators found so attractive as a harbour and built up to become one of the Mediterranean's major ports, has through the years become known as the Vieux Port, undisputed jewel in Marseilles' crown.
In the Middle Ages there was no constructed quay as such but the entrance was protected by two towers, the present day forts of St Jean and St Nicolas. The quay was constructed in 1512 and soon became a promenade for the population. The new docks of the Joliette allowed the Quai des Beiges to be enlarged to 45 metres wide in 1855 but reduced the area of the Vieux Port.
The city has always had to struggle to keep its port clean. However in 1850, the Durance river water first reached the city via a new canal. This greatly improved sanitation by pouring 1000 litres per second of fresh water into the harbour. The bombings of 1944 changed the features of the Vieux-Port. Nevertheless it has still managed to reserve the picturesque charm of Marseilles life with its many restaurants, fishermen's stalls and its daily fish market.
The ferry which crosses the harbour between the Town Hall and the Huiles Square offers very pleasing general views of the harbour and the town.
Updated Feb 11, 2012
Staying very close by and this is a great place to explore. Best, maybe , to walk but the ferry across the bay is also a very attractive option. There are, of course, many bars and restaurants to delay your walk around!
Written Feb 6, 2012
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Le Vieux Port, or Old Port, is where Marseille was founded. This natural U-shaped harbor is large enough only for small fishing and pleasure craft--not for the huge sea-going container ships, which use the much larger harbor just to the west.
Around the Old Port are the fortresses of Saint Nicholas and Saint Jean. They served a dual purpose--both to defend the port and to maintain control over the often-restive civil population of this city.
Also along the Old Port are some fine examples of French architecture, such as l'Hotel de Ville (the City Hall), the medieval churches, and le Chateau de Pharon (not open to the public). If you're hungry, you won't find better seafood than here. The local specialty is bouillabaisse, a delectable seafood soup. Look out for the bones.
Updated Apr 4, 2011
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This fort is one of two forts guading the old port. It was built way back in the 12th century and the square tower in the 15th century. Just around the corner of that tower are some benches that are always occupied with locals and tourists enjoying both views and the sun! We went there twice and loved this wonderful little retreat!
Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: Promenade Louis Braquier - 13002 Marseille
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How could you think about Marseille wihout its old harbour ? it's like Paris without the Eiffel Tower or Brussels without the Atomium. it's simply a must see.
Though, the traffic is there at its max, and conseqeuntly the noise, i suggest you to visit the harbour in the morning to see the spectacle of the fishmarket. Sold by the fishermen's wifes, i have rarely seen so fresh fish. So fresh that you can buy it still alive.
Be also attent at the plate on the ground explaining that all begin there 2600 years ago, making of Marseille the oldest town in France
Written Apr 13, 2009
Address: Quai des Belges / Quai de la fraternité
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Its the original part of the town, where Was celebrated the wedding of Gyptis and Protis, and the beginning of 26 centuries of the evolution of the town...Some one said that the Phoceans went there for building the mythic "Stade Velodrome" and create the "Pastis"...Perhaps its a short story of this town, but I cant live in an other town....
Updated Oct 9, 2008
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The Vieux Port is an inlet bay from the sea. This is where little boats and yachts are moored. Fresh fish is sold from stalls on the quay. Theatres and bars are here. Vieux Port is a stop on the Metro, two stops from Gare St. Charles [ rail station ]
Updated Mar 9, 2008
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It would be a lovely setting in the summer months to sit out enjoying a drink or 2. There are loads of hotels and restaurants and bars as well as shopping options if you want them. You can take cruises as well. All very central and within walking distances.
Updated Dec 24, 2007
Address: Vieux Port
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The Vieux Port is the center of tourist Mareille. It is the main marina of the city and guarded by two huge forts. You will find lots of cafés and restaurants there and plenty of buses leave from there. It is a good starting point for walks to either one of the forts, around the old city, along the shopping street "Canebiere" or to the church Notre Dame de la Garde.
Updated Mar 23, 2007
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Large fortifications protect the narrow passage into the old harbour. The work on these impressive constructions was started by King René I of Naples in 1447 and the work lasted for 6 years. The engineer Jean Pardo planned the defences and Jehan Robert, the mason of Tarascon, carried out the work. You may take a walk on the defences on the left side of the port by foot, but it is limited access to much of the fortress, as it still is a military area.
Written Jan 14, 2007
Address: At both sides of the entrance to Vieux Port
Website: http://tojoh.blogspot.com/2006/12/fortifications-protecting-le-vieux-port.html
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Vieux Port tips and photos posted by real travelers and Marseille locals.
Write a ReviewLarge fortifications protect the narrow passage into the old harbour. The work on these impressive constructions was started by King René I of Naples in 1447...
137 members live in Marseille
Q: Please if anyone can advise me about short rent apartment in Marseille? Which is tha best area to stay?
A: no experience with apartments there, but use this site for my bookings in Europe www.homelidays.com apart rentals by owner hope it helps
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