Le MuCEM

This museum is a true architectural gem. It houses a collection of objects from civilizations of the Mediterranean basin.

If you're planning to visit Marseille and you enjoy museums, the MUCEM is made for you! It's the first museum dedicated to Mediterranean civilizations in the 21st century. Built as part of Marseille Provence - European Capital of Culture, the museum opened its doors on June 7, 2013. It is now one of the most visited museums in Marseille with nearly 2 million visitors per year.

Located between the Fort Saint Jean and the cathedral of La Major, it offers an unbeatable view of the city from its waterfront. A 115-meter footbridge connects the J4 to Fort Saint Jean, an inseparable fortress from Marseille's history. Meanwhile, a second 70-meter footbridge connects it to the Saint-Laurent church, a landmark of the Panier district.

THE MUCEM : THREE PARTS DEDICATED TO CIVILIZATIONS

The museum is divided into 3 distinct sites: the J4, the Fort St Jean, and the last site, located in La Belle de Mai: the Center for Conservation and Resources (CCR). With its 3 sites, it offers nearly 40,000 m2 of space dedicated to Mediterranean basin civilizations with nearly a million works of art.

On the former port mole, the J4 welcomes in its 15,500 m² an exhibition space, an auditorium, a bookstore, a panoramic restaurant. It is indeed one of Marseille's restaurants with the most beautiful view!

At its heart, 3,600 m² of exhibition spaces on two levels to present the major events of the MUCEM.

The first level is dedicated to the Mediterranean world, its diversity, and its complexity. The second level comprises 2000 m² for temporary exhibitions.

As for the Fort Saint Jean, it dates back to the 12th century and has been completely renovated. It is connected to the J4 by a footbridge and offers a magnificent view of the entire city. Among the activities in Marseille, it's surely one of those that offer the most beautiful view! You can stroll through the landscaped garden, admire the Cathedral of La Major, and perhaps enjoy outdoor performances and events in Marseille. A café and a shop have also been set up. The Panier district is also connected to Fort Saint Jean via a footbridge. The Center for Conservation and Resources will take you behind the scenes of the museum.

This way, you could better understand how the artworks are preserved.