Marseille

Marseille (French: [maʁsɛj]; Provençal: Marselha) is the second-largest city in France, located on the Mediterranean coast in southeastern France. It has been an important port and trading center since ancient times and today serves as a major cultural and economic hub for southern Europe. With its population of over 800,000 people, it is one of the largest cities in France and also one of the most diverse due to its vibrant mix of cultures from all around Europe as well as North Africa.

The city was founded by Greek settlers circa 600 BC who named it Massalia – henceforth shortened to Marseille. Over time, various groups such as Celts, Romans and Visigoths ruled Marseille until 15th century when French monarch Louis XI annexed it into his kingdom after expelling local rulers. During this period much urban development took place with construction projects including Notre Dame de la Garde basilica which overlooks town centre today while remaining popular tourist attraction among locals & visitors alike thanks to stunning views that can be seen from its peak at 152m above sea level!

In 1720’s Jean Jacques Rousseau moved there thus giving birth to modern philosophy movement known now outside academic circles simply ‘Rousseausim’ or ‘Enlightenment’. 19th century saw introduction many public services such like water supply network connecting nearby rivers Mounier with Comtat Venaissin district during mid 1800’s; hospitalization centers taking care about citizens health needs starting late 1840’s ; post office opening their doors 1910…all these providing foundation for future growth rate set up next few decades across whole metropolitan area before World War II broke out 1939 bringing destruction devastation along it path through entire region leaving behind scars still visible nowadays despite efforts made afterwards rebuild damaged sites resorting back original splendor once enjoyed by generations past.,,,

In recent years tourism has become increasingly important industry supporting economy via influx millions visitors each year coming explore historical monuments both old/new ones scattered throughout metropolis alongside numerous museums galleries featuring works ranging Picasso Dali etc… Additionally newly built shopping malls provide opportunities tourists souvenirs last minute purchases They even have own version Eiffel Tower called Bonaparte Tower standing height 45 meters tall honoring Napoleon Bonaparte!!!

As 2020 draws near end long history continues write itself amidst present day hustle bustle boasting star studded roster attractions making sure travelers never run out things do see experience nexttimethey visit beautiful seasideescape know affectionately “the oldestcityofFrance”– MARSEILLE!!!!