Cosquer Méditerranée: A Window into Prehistoric Marseille
Journey 30,000 years back in time to explore a replica of the prehistoric Cosquer Cave, complete with stunning Paleolithic art and exhibits detailing the region's ancient environment in Marseille.
Cosquer Méditerranée offers a captivating journey back 30,000 years to explore a replica of the prehistoric Cosquer Cave. Discovered in 1985 by diver Henri Cosquer, the original cave, located deep within the Calanques National Park, is largely submerged and inaccessible to the public. This meticulously recreated version allows visitors to marvel at the cave's stunning collection of Paleolithic art, including paintings and engravings of animals like bison, horses, seals, and penguins, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and environment of early humans in the region. The experience extends beyond the cave itself, with exhibits detailing the cave's discovery, the region's prehistoric environment, and the impact of rising sea levels, making it an enriching and thought-provoking attraction for all ages. The site is located on the Esplanade Robert Laffont, easily accessible and a must-see when visiting Marseille.
A brief summary to Cosquer Méditerranée
- Promenade Robert Laffont, Esp. J4, Marseille, 13002, FR
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid long queues.
- Allocate at least 2 hours for your visit to fully experience the cave replica, museum exhibits, and Mediterranean Gallery.
- Consider combining your visit with a trip to the nearby MuCEM or a stroll around the Vieux-Port to make the most of your day in Marseille.
- The cave tour is conducted in semi-darkness, so those with visual sensitivities should be prepared. However, the rest of the museum is well-lit.
- Take advantage of the audio guides available in multiple languages, including a special version for children, to enhance your understanding of the cave art and its historical context.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Marseille's Vieux-Port (Old Port), take Metro Line 1 to the Vieux-Port station. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to Cosquer Méditerranée. Alternatively, take Metro Line 2 to the Joliette stop, which is also about a 15-minute walk. Several bus lines also serve the area, including lines 82, 82s, 60 and 49, stopping at Mucem-St Jean or Littoral Major. A single metro or bus ticket costs around €1.70.
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Walking
From the La Joliette area, walk towards the waterfront along Promenade de la Joliette. Continue straight until you reach the end of the promenade. The Cosquer Méditerranée building is located at Esplanade Robert Laffont, Esp. J4. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from the Vieux-Port to Cosquer Méditerranée will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic. The journey typically takes around 10-15 minutes. Be sure to specify 'Cosquer Méditerranée' as your destination.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Esplanade Robert Laffont, 13002 Marseille. Limited parking is available directly at Cosquer Méditerranée. The Indigo Vieux Port Mucem parking garage is nearby, approximately 700m away. Parking fees at Indigo Vieux Port Mucem can vary, expect to pay around €2.80 per hour.
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