Marseille: A Mediterranean Treasure
Marseille, with its sun-drenched streets, sea-scented air rich with stories, and unique blend of cultures, is a city that never ceases to surprise and enchant. From its ancient beginnings to its modern vibrancy, every street corner tells a story, every painted façade reveals a secret. Let's embark together on a journey into the heart of this Phocaean city, discovering its most unusual anecdotes.
10 fun facts about Marseille
🐟 The Sardine that Blocked the Port of Marseille The story of the "sardine that blocked the port of Marseille" is not just a tale: it was actually a ship named "La Sartine" that caused this historical incident.
🔨 The Oldest Hardware Store in France La Maison Empereur, established in 1827, is the oldest hardware store in France, located in Marseille. This 1,000 m² store offers tens of thousands of references, akin to an Ali Baba's cave.
🏠 Relocation of a Historical Building The Hôtel de Cabre, the oldest dwelling in Marseille, was physically moved and turned 90° in 1952, a unique architectural relocation!
🎥 Shooting of a Famous Film Le Bar de la Marine in Marseille served as a setting for scenes in the British film "Love Actually", although the movie is set in Portugal.
☕ The First Public Café in France in Marseille Marseille was ahead of Paris in hosting the first public café in France, an often unknown fact.
🌍 One of the Oldest Cities in Europe Founded around 600 BC by the Greeks, Marseille is one of Europe's oldest cities, bearing witness to a rich commercial and cultural past.
🍷 A Speakeasy Inspired by Prohibition Carry Nation, a speakeasy in Marseille, offers a unique experience with its secret entrance and atmosphere inspired by the Prohibition era.
🍹 Visit a Pastis Factory Cristal Limiñana, the last pastis factory in Marseille, invites visitors to discover the secrets of this emblematic drink.
🏯 A Vietnamese Pagoda in Marseille The Phap Hoa Pagoda, established in 1978, is a gem of Vietnamese culture in Marseille, offering a total change of scenery.
🧼 The Secrets of Marseille Soap The Fer à Cheval soap factory, a historical monument, continues to make traditional Marseille soap, a craft passed down through generations.
Play in Marseille
Would you like to discover even more anecdotes, fun facts, surprising facts or simply find out a little more about the history of Marseille? Then get on board with Coddy!
With our exploration games in Marseille, you can play and visit the city at the same time, (Re)discovering your surroundings while solving fun puzzles with your team!
