Marseille’s Old Port is a fundamental site for understanding the cultural and historical dynamics of the Mediterranean. Since its birth, it has been a centre for maritime trade linking Europe, North Africa and elsewhere. Its role fostered the emergence of a multicultural, cosmopolitan society, where economic exchanges were accompanied by cultural, technological and linguistic transfers.
In the Middle Ages, the port became a hub of Mediterranean trade, thanks in particular to its links with the Italian cities of Genoa, Pisa and Venice. But this period also saw the arrival of various communities (Greek, Jewish, Armenian) that enriched the city’s cultural fabric. Port urban planning adapted to these interactions, with the construction of warehouses, docks and defence infrastructures such as Fort Saint-Jean and Fort Saint-Nicolas.
The modern era (XVIᵉ-XIXᵉ centuries) was marked by the intensification of trade with the New World and the industrialisation of the port. Marseille became a major migratory crossroads. This diversity was reflected in the city’s cultural practices, gastronomy and social organisation.
It’s fair to say that, even today, the Old Port retains its role as a meeting place and cultural melting pot.
