MuCEM & Fort Saint-Jean

The MuCEM (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée) is a renowned cultural institution that explores the rich history and diverse cultures of the Mediterranean region.

Opened in 2013, this modern museum, with its striking latticework façade, is located at the entrance of the Old Port. Inside, the museum hosts a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions covering themes such as trade, migration, and cultural exchanges. The collections include artefacts, photographs, and multimedia displays that provide insights into Mediterranean civilizations from antiquity to the present day.

Part of the museum, and linked to it by a footbridge, is Fort Saint-Jean, one of the emblematic symbols of Marseille. It was built in 1660 by King Louis XIV as a military installation to protect the city’s harbour and assert royal authority – hence the massive stone walls and strategic vantage points.