Sketch on ancient history of Marseille

Marseille, Massalia and Massilia – there are names this city had during its long and turbulent history. Actually history of all cities starts when the first humans choose this territory among other and settle here down. With Marseille it happened (as scientists say) almost 30000 years ago. Cave paintings of Paleolithic period testify it. But more evidence of human activity here we can find starting from 600 BC, when Phoenicians established here their trading post and in those times it was entitled “Massalia”. The town quickly turned into the flourishing place and soon the Greeks possessed it. But when the pressure of surrounding nations such as Celts, Etruscans and Carthage, increased, the Greeks allied themselves with Romans. And as rule such kind of alliances were ending with benefit of Rome. Romans fortified and enlarged this port, calling it “Massillia”. They also established their laws and administration of justice.

Marseille is the oldest city of France and has numerous places to visit and explore. Welcome to this treasury of ancient history, stay in Marseille hotels, and you will definitely like this city. Find some time to walk along quay and imagine the times of Romans, how the ships were carrying cargo with precious things. Anyway, if you will visit Marseille you will not have regrets.