Marseille European Capital of Culture 2013

Things are changing fast in Marseille. The southern city, known as the "City of the Phoenicians" and for its Mediterranean flair and football team, is undergoing a major transformation in order to be prepared for the title European Capital of Culture 2013. The oldest city in France, founded in 600 BC by the Greeks, is a melting pot of cultures and has an extensive list of cultural and entertainment attractions like the opera house, historical museums, art galleries, Expos’ organizations, cinemas and restaurants. “Among all the French cities that applied to be European Capital of Culture, Marseille was the one which needed it most,” said Bernard Latarjet, the former director of Marseille-Provence 2013 (the organization in charge of the event). For Marseille the cultural aspect represents an important vector for development, both in regard to the city’s image as to its economy. 

All throughout the year 2013, hundreds of cultural and artistic events will be staged across the Provence region, from Arles to Toulon. Artistic and cultural disciplines of all kinds will be present for this major event, ranging from contemporary dance to gastronomy, visual and performing arts, and scholarly conferences. Art will also be on display in public areas and four major festive events will be held in honour of the four seasons of the Capital year. In keeping with its unique millennial culture, "Marseille-Provence 2013" will be celebrating European and Mediterranean cultures all year long and has already prepared 400 projects including exhibits, performances, commissioned artwork, conferences and workshops, for a total budget of € 98 million.

For checking the program, click here.