In 2013, when Marseille-Provence was European Capital Culture, it opened the MuCEM, the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations. Since then, the MuCEM has become one of the world's 50 most visited museums.
Three sites, spread across 44,000 m² opposite the Mediterranean, house the museum's collections and exhibitions:
- The J4, named after the old port jetty on which the building stands, is dedicated to the major stages in the history of the Mediterranean civilisations, with a variety of themes: invention and extension of agriculture, monotheism, citizenship and human rights, travel and great discoveries, etc.
- The Fort Saint-Jean, dating from the 12th century, and its footbridge projecting over the sea, where the visitor can admire the rich collections of popular arts and traditions, and enjoy the Mediterranean garden.
- The CCR, a Centre for Conservation and Resources, based in the La Belle de Mai district near Saint-Charles station, which hosts temporary exhibitions amongst other things.
Anthropology, history, archaeology, art history and contemporary art all come together at the MuCEM, a veritable city of knowledge and interaction, where the public is provided with tools for reflection as well as the permanent and temporary exhibitions: debates and lectures, performing arts, readings, films, documentaries, etc.
An ambitious project with unique architecture, the MuCEM offers the public guided tours, audio-guides, family tours, relaxation areas for fast food or more elaborate meals, and even a cookery school at the Môle Passédat, in Fort Saint-Jean.
Allow half-day for an initial look around the museum… and several more visits to fully explore its cultural treasures!
