Massalia

Massalia, known today as Marseille, is France’s oldest city, founded around 600 BC by Greek settlers from Phocaea. It became a major trading hub due to its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast. The city played a key role in ancient commerce, culture, and politics, integrating Greek and local influences. Today, Marseille is a vibrant port city, blending its rich historical heritage with modern industries. Its historical significance stems from its origins as a Greek colony, making it a vital link in ancient maritime networks and a symbol of cultural exchange in the Mediterranean region.