Founded by the ancient Greeks around 600 BC, Marseille (known then as Massalia) is not only the oldest city in France, but was one of the most important ports in the ancient Mediterranean world. For an immersive journey through the 26 centuries that shaped this strategically-located city from antiquity through the 18th century, there‘s no better destination than the Marseille History Museum (Musée d‘Histoire de Marseille).
Museum Background
Opened in 1983, the Marseille History Museum was born out of an incredible discovery. In 1967, as construction began on a new shopping center near the Vieux Port (Old Port), archaeologists uncovered a trove of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts and ruins that had been hidden for centuries, including the remarkably well-preserved remains of the ancient Greek port.
The decision was made to preserve the site and create a museum to house and display these treasures, making the Marseille History Museum the first town historical museum in France. Adjacent to the museum, you can still see part of the excavation site in the Jardin des Vestiges (Garden of Ruins).
Collections and Exhibits
The museum‘s permanent collection includes over 4,000 artifacts spanning Marseille‘s history from 600 BC through the 1700s, thoughtfully arranged in chronological order and beautifully presented through 100 engaging multimedia displays.
Highlights of the ancient Greek and Roman exhibits include:
- Remains of ancient Greek fortifications and port structures
- A remarkably intact 3rd century Roman merchant ship, excavated from the port
- Greco-Roman sculptures, mosaics, ceramics, sarcophagi, and everyday objects
- Artifacts related to the worship of Greek gods and goddesses like Artemis and Athena
The ancient collections paint a vivid picture of Massalia as a thriving Greek settlement and major trading port with connections across the Mediterranean. Historians estimate the population reached 20,000-30,000 inhabitants at its peak in the 4th century BC, making it one of the largest cities in the ancient Greek world.
As you continue to the early Christian and medieval exhibits, you‘ll find:
- Artifacts from some of the earliest Christian churches and communities in France
- Statues, tombstones, and inscriptions with both pagan and Christian symbolism
- Medieval manuscripts, weapons, armor, and everyday objects
- A restored 13th century merchantman ship
The medieval collections showcase Marseille‘s continued strategic importance as a port city and commercial hub, as well as its religious significance in the early spread of Christianity.
Finally, the early modern exhibits feature:
- Renaissance art, furniture, and scientific instruments
- Maps, navigation tools, model ships, and other artifacts of Marseille‘s maritime history
- Everyday objects like coins, pottery, clothing and more from the 16th-18th centuries
Audio guides (available in several languages) and guided tours provide valuable context and stories behind the objects on display. The museum also makes excellent use of multimedia and interactive technology in exhibits, including videos, digital reconstructions of ruins and artifacts, and touchscreens that allow you to explore 3D models and access additional information.
Exploring the Museum
With 26 centuries of history to cover, there‘s a lot of ground to explore in this museum! If you‘re short on time, most visitors recommend prioritizing the ancient Greek and Roman collections and the 3rd century shipwreck exhibit as must-sees.
However, to fully immerse yourself in Marseille‘s rich history, plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the museum in chronological order. History buffs will want to budget even more time to examine the exhibits in detail and make use of the comprehensive audio guide or guided tours (check the museum website for current schedules and languages offered).
For families, the museum offers kid-friendly areas known as "Les Escales de l‘Histoire" (History‘s Ports of Call) where young explorers can get hands-on with interactive exhibits, puzzles and games designed to help them engage with history in a fun way.
After viewing the interior exhibits, be sure to spend some time exploring the outdoor excavation site and ruins in the adjacent Jardin des Vestiges before continuing your historical walking tour along the "Voie Historique" (Historic Way), a marked trail that connects the museum to other major sites like the ancient Roman docks and the medieval Fort Saint-Jean.
Practical Information and Tips
- Location: 2 rue Henri Barbusse, 13001 Marseille (adjacent to the Vieux Port)
- Getting there: Easily accessible by metro (lines 1 and 2), tram (line 2), and bus (lines 35, 49, 55). Paid parking available at the nearby Centre Bourse shopping center garage.
- Hours: Open daily 9am-6pm, except Mondays. Closed on some holidays.
- Admission: €6 for adults as of 2023. Discounts available for seniors, students, children, and groups. Check the museum website for the most up-to-date pricing and booking information.
- Languages: All exhibit signage is in French and English. Audio guides and guided tours are available in several languages.
- Time needed: At least 2-3 hours recommended to explore the exhibits. A quick visit could be done in about 1 hour if focusing only on highlights.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers adapted guided tours for visitors with disabilities. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow at the reception desk.
Why Visit?
The Marseille History Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the fascinating history of France‘s oldest city and its role as a strategic port from antiquity through the early modern era. The thoughtfully arranged and presented exhibits, including the incredible ancient shipwreck and excavation site, provide an immersive experience that brings centuries of history vividly to life.
Whether you‘re a history aficionado, a casual visitor looking to learn more about Marseille, or a family seeking an engaging educational experience, this museum has something to offer. Its central location near the Vieux Port and proximity to other major historical sites also makes it easy to incorporate into a walking tour or sightseeing itinerary in Marseille.
By exploring the museum‘s exhibits and artifacts documenting key periods and events in the city‘s past, you‘ll come away with a deepened understanding and appreciation of Marseille‘s rich history, cultural heritage, and enduring importance as a Mediterranean crossroads. Don‘t miss this journey through time on your visit to France‘s stunning southern coast!
