It is said that sardines plugged up the Old Port of Marseille. True story. Or just about. In 1779, French prisoners of war were put on the frigate Sartine, which had been named in honour of the Minister of the French navy under Louis XVI, the so-named Monsieur de Sartine. One year later, the ship finally arrives in Marseille’s harbour. Slight problem: too big to enter, the ship blocks the port. This becomes the talk of Canebière, Marseille’s high street, and as the news gets passed along is twisted and exaggerated. In the mouths of the Marseillais, the frigate Sartine is transformed into “sardines”. Which should not stop you from going round to Sard’In Marseille, the city’s first sardine bar. Located in the Old Port, of course.Le Vieux-Port - Marseille – where Mercure Marseille Centre Vieux Port Hotel is located
Read more
