Mucem (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations) is a museum located in the heart of Marseille, France. It was founded in 2013 and is the largest museum in France dedicated to the history and cultures of the Mediterranean region. The museum covers a vast array of topics from ancient times to the present, including art, archaeology, anthropology, and history. It is a place of learning, discovery, and exploration, and a great place to visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of the Mediterranean.
History of Mucem
The Mucem was created in 2013 by the French government, with the aim of providing a comprehensive look at the history and culture of the Mediterranean region. It was designed by architect Rudy Ricciotti, and is housed in a building that is part of the J4 complex, which is a historic fortification built in the 19th century. The museum is divided into two parts: the historical part, which covers the history of the Mediterranean from ancient times to the present; and the contemporary part, which focuses on modern and contemporary art and culture.
Collections
The Mucem holds a wide range of collections, including art, archaeology, anthropology, and history. The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 200,000 objects, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern artworks. The collections are organized into five major categories: archaeology, history, art, anthropology, and contemporary art. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs.
Highlights
The Mucem is home to many highlights, including the Gallo-Roman Collection, which includes artifacts from the Roman period, as well as works from the medieval and Renaissance periods. The Maritime Museum houses a collection of maritime artifacts, including ships, boats, and navigational tools. The Museum of Mediterranean Cultures showcases objects from the cultures of the Mediterranean, including clothing, jewelry, and pottery. The Islamic Arts Gallery features artworks from the Islamic world, such as calligraphy, carpets, and tiles.
Exhibitions and Events
The Mucem hosts a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year, ranging from educational programs to art exhibitions. The museum also organizes public lectures and workshops, as well as concerts and films. The museum also hosts a variety of cultural events, such as the Marseille International Music Festival and the Marseille Book Fair.
Visiting the Museum
The Mucem is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Admission is free for visitors under the age of 18, and discounted for students, seniors, and other groups. The museum also offers a variety of guided tours and audio guides, which are available in several languages. Additionally, the museum offers a variety of educational programs for students of all ages.
Facilities
The Mucem is equipped with several facilities to make the visitor’s experience more enjoyable, including:
- Restaurant
- Cafeteria
- Gift shop
- Library
- Auditorium
The Mucem is a great place to explore the history and culture of the Mediterranean region. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the history of the region, or just want to explore the art and culture, the Mucem is a great place to visit.