La Vieille Charité: A Historical and Cultural Gem
Discover Marseille's captivating history and vibrant culture at La Vieille Charité, a beautifully restored 17th-century hospice transformed into a multidisciplinary cultural center.
La Vieille Charité, nestled in the heart of Marseille's historic Le Panier district, is a captivating blend of architectural grandeur and cultural significance. Originally built in the 17th century as a hospice to house the city's poor, it has been meticulously restored and transformed into a multidisciplinary center. Today, it houses the Museum of Mediterranean Archaeology, the Museum of African, Oceanian and Amerindian Arts, a cinema, a bookshop, and a poetry center, offering visitors a rich tapestry of history, art, and culture. Its stunning Baroque chapel, designed by Pierre Puget, and the surrounding galleries provide a serene and inspiring atmosphere. A visit here offers a unique glimpse into Marseille's past and its vibrant present, making it a must-see destination for any traveler seeking an authentic cultural experience. Explore diverse exhibitions, admire the architecture, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this historical monument.
A brief summary to Old Charity Center
- 2 Rue de la Charité, Marseille, 13002, FR
- +33491145880
- Visit website
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of the museums and galleries.
- Check the center's website for upcoming events, exhibitions, and concerts to enhance your visit.
- Take time to relax in the central courtyard and admire the stunning Baroque chapel designed by Pierre Puget.
- Explore the Le Panier district surrounding La Vieille Charité, with its charming streets, artisan shops, and local restaurants.
- Consider visiting on the first Sunday of the month for free access to temporary exhibitions.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From the Vieux-Port (Old Port), take bus line 82S towards Pharo Catalans and get off at the 'La Major' or 'Sadi Carnot' stop. From either stop, it's a short 5-minute walk, heading north, towards La Vieille Charité, which will be visible on Rue de la Charité. A single ticket 'Ticket Métropole' costs €2 and is valid for one hour on the bus and metro network.
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Walking
From the Vieux-Port, walk north towards the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Continue along the Quai du Port, passing the Cathédrale de la Major on your left. Turn left onto Rue de la Charité. La Vieille Charité will be on your right after a few blocks. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views of the port and the historic Le Panier district.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from the Vieux-Port to La Vieille Charité typically costs between €8 and €12, depending on traffic. The journey usually takes around 5-10 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at 2 Rue de la Charité.
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Driving
Driving directly to La Vieille Charité is possible, but parking in the Le Panier district can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited spaces. Several public parking lots are available nearby, including those at Place Jules Verne and Place Charles de Gaulle. Expect to pay around €2.50 - €3.50 per hour for parking. Consider using a parking app like Mobypark to reserve a spot in advance, potentially saving up to 60% on parking fees.
Discover more about Old Charity Center
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