arseille-provence - Office du Tourisme et des Congrès de Marseille

press file
arseille-provence
2013
a capital
year for
culture
TOURISM PARTNERS EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE
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ontents
→overview
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the Marseille-provence 2013
projects and provisional
prograMMe
[4-5]
a region of change
[14]
a cultural and touristic capital
[16]
Marseille : city of the past and
the future
[18]
what is a european capital of
culture ?
[30]
Media contacts
[31]

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→ marseille provence,
Marseille, together with the region of Provence, bring to mind images of soaring seagulls, singing crickets,
charming cottages, and leisurely games of petanque—a place where the joy of living is felt every day. It’s also
a tourist destination offering a host of benefits, and a region bubbling over with cultural exuberance. In 2013,
Marseille-Provence becomes the European Capital of Culture, and the programme specially created for this unique
event is extraordinary !
Colours, sunshine, light—it’s no wonder that artists love Provence and find it to be a source of inspiration. Here,
culture has always been synonymous with festive, entertaining, avant-garde, and racial coalescence. Museums,
theatres, artist’s workshops, design studios, as well as places to share and exchange with others, abound.
“le partage des Midis”
plurality
and
sunshine
The title of the European Capital of Culture (which means «sharing the Midi’s») is to be experienced like an
amazing adventure, an eclectic celebration that lifts the spirit with a programme of events to delight the
eyes! It includes a series of extraordinary events, which in their own way together form a choir that sings of
interchange and discourse between the two shores of the Mediterranean, and tells the tale of the «partage des
midis».
The year is split into three parts. Part 1, from January to May: «Marseille-Provence welcomes the world»
shines a spotlight on the local traditions of hospitality, cosmopolitanism, inter-relations with others, and the
blossoming of new urban cultures. Part 2, from June to August: «Marseille-Provence under the open skies»
celebrates summertime in Provence and its lovely evenings, with walks, hikes, and outdoor nocturnal shows
held in unique locations. Finally, part 3, from September to December: «Marseille-Provence of a thousand
faces», takes place under the banner of togetherness. A symbol of sharing par excellence, cuisine is one of the
special guests of honour.
tan, cliMb, feast, learn
In addition to the exceptional programme of events, 2013 is also the perfect opportunity to discover—or
rediscover—all that this outstanding region has to offer. Rocky inlets with clear blue waters, majestic forests,
castles, mountains, and a range of aromas and colours—Provence’s collection of beauty is worthy of Prévert,
much to the delight of 10 million tourists who visit from around the world each year. Whether travelling as a
family, with friends, alone, or as lovers, the region will not fail to live up to your expectations. Perfect your tan on
a beach of fine sand; hike up a hill or climb a mountain; sit down and watch a heart-rendering play; treat yourself
to a bowl of bouillabaisse. All of this, and more, awaits. Marseille-Provence means plurality; and that means
anything is possible.
froM european Metropolis to charMing villages
First and foremost stands Marseille, with its rich 2600-year old history marked by multiple cultures and races.
But the region does not stop with this dynamic metropolis presently in the midst of architectural renewal.
Camargue, Sainte-Victoire, Luberon, as well as the mountains of Alpes-du-Sud, to name just a few, are
outstanding places to explore. Not to mention its countryside, dotted with small villages bursting with charm,
history, life.

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marseille-provence 2013
the
project
It is now Marseille Provence’s turn to do honour to the title of European Capital of Culture. For a full year, this
region—already a major European tourist destination—will host more than 400 cultural events showcasing
the artistic excellence of Europe and the Mediterranean Basin, based on its central theme: «le partage des
midis».
A European Capital of Culture located on the shores of the Mediterranean cannot help but be impacted by its
geography—a geography with a long history of journeys, discoveries and major expeditions to faraway lands,
and that opens onto landscapes both real and imagined.
From Aix-en-Provence to Marseille, from Arles to La Ciotat, a constellation of towns and villages fan out
across the wide range of landscapes that characterize the region of Provence. The region’s unique social and
geographical features may be classified in three broad categories: cosmopolitanism, the relationship between
nature and towns/cities, and urban cultures (in the broad sense). Marseille-Provence 2013 has drawn on the
region’s unique cultural and societal vitality in crafting the spirit and atmosphere of its programme.
The year 2013 will unfold like a long chronicle told in three parts. The story’s central theme is the
Mediterranean, the narrative of its two shores, and «le partage des midis» («sharing the midi’s»). This is the
common thread throughout the entire programme.
→the story is told in three parts:
• Part 1: «Marseille-Provence welcomes the world», shines a spotlight on the local tradition of hospitality,
cosmopolitanism, and inter-relations with others. It is made up primarily of the ceremonies, celebrations and
opening events of the Capital year. It testifies to the richness of the new art forms which are blossoming in
the region’s towns and demonstrates new «artistic dimensions». A case in point is the «This is (not) music»
event.
• Part 2, «Marseille-Provence under the open skies», runs throughout the summer, and focuses on the
relationship with nature, hiking and walking, and outdoor and nocturnal shows and concerts held in unique
locations. The combination of talent and joyful encounters will make this festival season a truly exceptional
one.
• Part 3, «Marseille-Provence of a thousand faces», highlights art and togetherness in public spaces, new
contemporary literature, pieces composed for children and youth, and on some of the great personalities in
the history of Mediterranean art and thought.
In addition to the event programming centred around these three parts, there will also be several mobile and/
or itinerant events which will inject a central undertone of travel, touring and mobility into the Capital region
throughout the whole of 2013. These include, for example, the GR©2013, TransHumance, the mobile Centre
Pompidou, the Écrans voyageurs and the Grandes Carrioles. These itinerant events will allow a wide variety of
audiences to spend time together under the banner of getting to know and sharing with one another.
Each of the three parts will open with a focus on a particular artistic discipline or a regional highlight that
includes several major events, such as :
• The inauguration of new cultural sites
• The unveiling of new exhibitions
• The start of one or several artistic programs, such as the «circus arts» program that will kick off the year.

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provisional prograMMe
All throughout 2013, visitors and residents alike will enjoy outstanding moments throughout the Marseille-
Provence region. From January to December, music, dance, exhibitions (fine arts, sculpture, contemporary art
and architecture), circus acts, cuisine and theatre will shine throughout the whole of Provence. The year of
the European Capital of Culture will also witness some very large and unusual events held under the twin
banners of novelty and surprise. For tourists and visitors alike, it will be a unique opportunity to delve deep
into the beating heart of the cultures of the Mediterranean Basin and Provence— a journey of exploration
and discovery that is not to be missed !
part 1 :
marseille provence welcoMes the world
January—May
Starting in January, Marseille-Provence welcomes the world and presents the very best its towns have to
offer. Urban cultures are the star of the show, extending beyond music to include sport, literature, video, new
technologies and arts of all kinds.
An outstanding collection of new major cultural sites will open their doors to welcome visitors from around the
world. During this initial celebration of the Capital’s exhibitions, ships will set sail, ports will hum to the rhythm
→of mankind and its history, artists and works will cross from shore to shore, and visitors will enjoy one stop after
another. This exceptional journey through time and space will allow each one to discover the Mediterranean of a
thousand faces.
opening weekend,
12–13 january, in several of the region’s towns
The festivities invite all of the region’s residents as well as visitors to participate in an exceptional
programme of events. The day and evening of Saturday, 12 January 2013, will be highlighted by the
participation of the Patrouille de France (French air force aerobatic show), the inauguration of a new
cultural tour, the opening of new sites dedicated to culture, the hosting of balls, musical performances
and never before seen pyrotechnical shows. Sunday, 13 January, will be dedicated to families and popular
→events. All are invited to join the adventure by taking part in a giant treasure hunt held in several of the
region’s towns. Unexpected and spectacular events will be held all throughout the weekend, specially
designed to delight old and young alike.
parcours d’art contemporain (contemporary art tour),
12 january to the end of january, aix-en-provence and
surroundings
→Throughout the city of Aix-en-Provence, over fifteen works of art signed by internationally-known artists will be on
display throughout Aix-en-Provence, showcasing its heritage and history while at the same time highlighting its
modernity.
les grandes carrioles (grand carts, cuisine),
year-long, throughout the entire region
Specially conceived for the European Capital of Culture, Les Grandes Tables de la Friche, together with a
collection of chefs and artists, have combined their talents and imagination to create 13 itinerant kitchens.
Whether it’s panisses aux herbes, tajine de mauve, glace au foin, mint tea or Turkish coffee, each cart will
have its own unique menu and style of cuisine. Each cart will be manned by a chef and an artist, forming

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uncommon duos serving up unique artistic and gastronomic creations. The Grandes Carrioles may be found
→anywhere—around the next corner, perhaps—and during large events they will come together like the
pieces of a great culinary puzzle which when assembled paints a beautiful picture of the diversity of the
region’s cuisine.
navigations and Méditerranées (navigation and Mediterranean,
history and civilisation), 12 january to 12 May, Marseille
In January, the «J1» hangar—a landmark of the Capital—will inaugurate its vast expanse that opens
onto the sea with a gigantic «fictional exhibition», with a modern Ulysses as guide. The exhibition includes
more than 200 works of art spanning the treasures of the Mediterranean heritage as well as contemporary
creations and audio-visual installations.
→Ulysses takes visitors on an incredible journey through time, from the era of the Trojan wars to the twentyfirst
century, following an 11-stage itinerary that stops in 11 legendary ports including Athens, Alexandria,
Venice, Istanbul and Marseille.
ici, ailleurs (here & there, contemporary art),
12 january to 7 april, Marseille
To inaugurate the Panorama—a new exhibition area for contemporary art at the Friche la Belle de Mai—an
ambitious exhibition titled «Ici, ailleurs» (here and there) will be held, featuring contemporary artists
from both sides of the Mediterranean. A wide range of art techniques are represented, including painting,
sculpture, video, photography and installation art. Some of the works on display, thirty-plus of which were
→created for the exhibition and never before shown, focus on the Mediterranean landscape. Many explore
the meaning of identity and citizenship. Several communicate the experience of emigration, exile or being
uprooted. Together, they speak of the current state of our world and explore changes yet to come.
cadavre exquis («exquisite corpse», Mediterranean contemporary
art), 12 january to mid-april, aix-en-provence
An original exhibition that presents a collective work created by artists from all over the Mediterranean
Basin and Near East. With its own take on the surrealist practice of «exquisite corpse», where each
artist takes part in a creative assembly chain by creating a work in response to that of their immediate
predecessor, the museum has invited artists (painters, sculptors, plastic artists, photographers, video
creators, writers, poets, musicians, etc.) to take part in a collective work of art, a work in progress in its
truest sense, with a succession of «artistic rebounds». Created over a two-year period
→(2011 and 2012) the works are assembled and presented in their final form in
an exhibition whose richness draws from the cultural diversity of its artistic
participants.
Circus art has made all of Europe its
cirque en capitales (circus in capitals),
playground, and the performers taking
24 january to 24 february, Mp2013 region part in the Marseille-Provence 2013
adventure are both large in number and
For one month, many French and international acts will be
high in quality, making circus art one
performing in the region, to everyone’s delight ! The event includes
of the core features of the year. One of
→more than 150 performances spanning 30 different shows, including
the European Capital of Culture’s major
contemporary circus acts, clowns, magic, flash mobs, street
objectives is to showcase as many
performances, and more. Something for everyone !
innovative artistic creations to as many
roberto Matta,“le surréalisme et l’histoire”
people as possible.
«(surrealism and history, fine art/modern
art), 15 february to 19 May, Marseille
This exhibition provides a close look at the thread that led Matta from the path of
surrealist automation to a metaphorical interpretation of history. It includes over sixty paintings and a
collection of graphic works of art, along with a study of written and film archives never before shown, part
of a research project conducted by the Université Paris I-Sorbonne, as well as a film created for the occasion
based on these archives.

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→gr®2013
(long-distance hiking route and artistic walk), starting 24
March, throughout the region
Marseille-Provence 2013 creates a new type of path—peri-urban and artistic! This 280 km
footpath in the infinite shape of a figure 8, provides visitors with novel and artistic walks
and hikes. Audio-guided tours, scenic picnics, off-beat exploration of the region with the
sudden appearance of unexpected objects along the route, as well as informational aids and
technological devices, provide a unique walking and hiking experience through Provence. «I
walk. Therefore I am.»
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An original idea created by a walking troupe of artists in partnership with the Fédération
française de randonnée pédestre (French hiking federation).
révélations (pyrotechnics),
throughout the region; dates to be announced
With a mix of fire, lights, music and stories, Révélations is an epic saga performed in chapters throughout the
entire region. A popular favourite, the «lights» carried by the show’s artists transform the selected locations
→where they perform. A string of magical moments not to be missed !
Internationally recognised for its artistic performances, Groupe F presents a multi-art production that sits at
the crossroads of land art, pyrotechnics and outdoor theatre.
l’art en vitrine (windowpane art, urban tour), March–april 2013,
aix-en-provence & Marseille
This tour follows a series of artistic handiworks created on the shop windows of town centre establishments.
It’s an artistic journey that provides a new and insightful look into our region’s know-how through an
→entertaining itinerary designed in collaboration with local shopkeeper associations. Its objective and shared
desire is to temporarily transform a space dedicated to consumption into one devoted to contemplation.
Spaces full of enjoyment and discovery !
rodin, l’ombre de l’antique (fine arts),
april to july, arles
An exhibition which pays homage to Rodin (one of the greatest French sculptors) and specifically one of his
→favourite themes: antiquity. This exhibition draws on antiquity not only as a source of inspiration but also of
art itself. It is built around eight presentations which juxtapose some of Rodin’s most important sculptures
with antique counterparts from some of the world’s greatest museums.
picasso céramiste et la Méditerranée (picasso, ceramic artist
and the Mediterranean sea ; fine arts/modern art), 27 april to 13
october, aubagne
This extraordinary exhibition presented in an art centre housed in the Pénitents-Noirs chapel includes nearly
120 works, some of which have never been shown together and others not at all.
While ceramics was an important medium of Picasso’s work, his use of it remains little known. It is known
that the great artist created some 4,500 ceramic pieces and embraced the art of pottery with as much
genius and vitality as he did sculpting and painting.
→This exhibition is highly relevant to the region of Pays d’Aubagne et de l’Etoile,
where many pottery workshops still operate to this day. It’s the perfect occasion
to discover the skills of the local craftsmen.
les terrasses de Kader attia, large sea
wall (contemporary art), early May to late
september, Marseille
A monumental work by this artist is set up along the Large, the sea
wall which outlines the entrance to the port of Marseille. Visitors
can enjoy this work of art as they stroll along a path strewn with
viewpoints that provide some of the best panoramas of the port, the
city and the open sea.
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The European Capital
of Culture coincides with the
transformation of the Marseille sea front and
its new urban and port landscape—a new lifeline
between the city and its port. Against this backdrop,
the Large sea wall is especially significant and
symbolic. This long and thin dyke separating the sea
and the city runs for 7 km from Vieux-Port to Estaque.
A one kilometre stretch is being fully renovated for
2013 to create one of the key
promenades of the Capital
of Culture year.

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→this is (not) music (new urban
Combining music, visual arts
culture), 2 May to 10 june, Marseille and sports, «This is (not) Music»
«This is (not) Music»: nearly 40 consecutive days of festivities puts the spotlight on the bridges that
and artistic performances spanning a full range of arts,
exist between the different fields of art
including contemporary art, street art, urban sports and
and sport—bridges which can turn
contemporary music, spread out over the 40,000 m2 of the simple individual practices into whole
Friche la Belle de Mai. This grand event dedicated to new urban
new subcultures.
culture provides a great opportunity for visitors of all kinds—from
→the simply curious to dedicated nightlifers—to discover and enjoy
a range of artistic concepts and new friendly urban spaces during the
Capital of Culture year.
la dernière vague (urban contemporary art),
May 2 to late june, Marseille
Part of the «This is (not) Music» project, visitors are immersed in the world of street art and alternative
cultures as they explore this remarkable exhibition. Within a space covering nearly 2400 m2, «reference»
→and «cult» artists from the contemporary urban art movement, whose art has been splashed on walls the
world over as well as made its way into some of the most prestigious galleries, will be on display at the
Panorama.
la folle histoire des arts de la rue (the crazy story of street art,
street art), 3–20 May, several towns throughout the region
Street art is one crazy story, and local residents and visitors will witness dozens of performances and
presentations that tell it. From burlesque street shows to interactive presentations, each troupe invites
us to look at our world differently, and to reinvent and use the spaces around us in new and different
ways. The special 2013 edition of «La folle histoire des arts de la rue», created by Karwan in partnership
→with the Conseil Général des Bouches-du-Rhône, roams the Capital of Culture region, touching down in
6 towns where local and national artists will share the «stage» with artists from around Europe and the
Mediterranean Basin. This varied group of artists will appropriate each town, transform it and tell its story.
le noir et le bleu, un rêve méditerranéen (black and blue—a
Mediterranean dream, history/civilisation), late May to
december, Marseille
This exhibition is designed in the form of a story, a journey. It combines outstanding paintings, photographs
→and sculptures, with original documents, manuscripts and rare books. It explores the different facets of
the Mediterranean dream down through the ages, from the eighteenth to the twenty-first centuries. It is a
journey made through shadows and light, through barbarianism and civilisation, through «Black and Blue».
au bazar du genre (civilisation),
late May to december, Marseille
In an effort to broach one of the biggest questions facing today’s societies—the relationship between men
and women, and more specifically the significant changes in the order of the sexes—MuCEM presents a
journey through what it means to be a man or a woman in the various societies of today’s Mediterranean
Basin. Objects from the museum’s ethnological collections are combined with testimonies from men and
women, film clips and contemporary art installations, and take a close look at the changes taking place in
gender inter-relations.

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part 2 :
marseille-provence under the open sKies
June to September
This summer, even more than other summers, the outdoor evenings beckon, calling us to leave the towns
behind and go beyond the beaten paths to where the sounds of dozens of festivals can be heard. The
combination of talent and joyful encounters, held in an equally perfect climate, will make this festival
season a truly exceptional one.
The second act of the European Capital of Culture’s exhibitions unfolds under the double banner of dreams
and connections through two ambitious projects: the MuCEM exhibition, a unique architectural creation at
the entrance of Marseille’s Vieux-Port which embodies the Mediterranean Basin as a bridge between East
→and West. A utopian version of Van Gogh is the foundation of the summer’s flagship exhibition, held between
Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, as well as in Aubagne, Martigues, Cassis and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Creating a workshop for artists in the Midi.
transhumance (collective walk and work of art),
18 May – 8 june, throughout the region
The Théâtre du Centaure invites everyone to take part in a long walk of both man and beast. The result is a
unique and authentic experience, which can be enjoyed either on foot or horseback, where participants can
join in the adventure and take part in the creation of a collective work of art, whether it be for a day or three
weeks.
→At nightfall, on a dozen evenings throughout the journey, the caravanserai invite riders, hikers and all to
enjoy cultural and artistic presentations together as well as culinary treats and surprising encounters with
an eclectic mix of shepherds, poets, astrophysicists, scientists and others.
le grand atelier du Midi, (the large Midi workshop, fine arts/
modern art), 13 june – 13 october, aix-en-provence and Marseille
Comprised of two parts presented simultaneously at the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Marseille and the
Musée Granet in Aix-en-Provence, visitors can enjoy and admire masterpieces from the grand masters
which illustrate the different artistic movements which have punctuated the twentieth century, including
impressionism, post-impressionism, fauvism, cubism, surrealism and abstraction. The Marseille exhibition
is titled «De Van Gogh à Bonnard» (From Van Gogh to Bonnard), and that of Aix-en-Provence «De Cézanne à
Matisse» (From Cezanne to Matisse). This is a first-rate exhibition held in the heart of Provence—that land
of inspiration to grand masters of the brush.
→It echoes two sister exhibitions presented in the region, one on Picasso and ceramic art («Picasso, céramiste
et la Méditerranée») held in Aubagne, and the other on Dufy held in Martigues.
raoul dufy, de Martigues à l’estaque (fine art, modern art),
13 june – 13 october, Martigues
The exhibition shines the spotlight on works created by Dufy at workshops located in the Midi region, from
his first stay at Martigues up to his works painted while in Marseille at the outbreak of the First World
War. The Diem museum allows visitors to follow the research performed by the artist over the course of
two decades from Martigues to Estaque, including canvases and sketches for the most part never before
exhibited.
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daniel buren, (contemporary art, massive work of art),
june – december, istres
Daniel Buren, one of the most internationally renowned French artists, has created a project specifically
designed to fill public spaces, as part an urban development project undertaken by the municipality of
Istres. A tour takes visitors on a new artistic promenade through a park of sculptures encircling the lake.
→The in situ works by Daniel Buren are the result of his first-hand encounter with each site. They both reflect
and transform the spaces they occupy, inviting visitors to experience a walk of discovery through temporary
structures.
felice varini (contemporary art, massive work of art),
june – september, salon-de-provence
Get the full Felice Varini experience in an exceptional historical setting! The terrace of the Château de
l’Emperi, a ninth century fort classified as a «historical monument» and crown jewel of the town of Salonde-Provence,
provides the vantage point for one of Felice Varini’s monumental paintings.
Architectural constructions are the canvases of Felice Varini’s art, a French-Swiss artist based in Paris
since 1978. When viewed from a particular vantage point, generally located at the artist’s eye level, a
simple geometric form appears, painted on walls but providing the illusion of having been painted on a
→single plane. As one moves away from the vantage point, the painting becomes fragmented and provides an
infinite number of viewpoints. The view, from all of its viewpoints, is worth the trip !
Throughout this act, the sounds of dozens of festivals will be heard throughout the Capital of
Culture region. Dance, music, photography, film and live performances are just more good reasons
to take a lovely stroll outdoors and enjoy the balmy summer nights of Provence.
Festival de danse et des arts multiples de Marseille, Festival de jazz des cinq continents, Le Festival
international du documentaire (FID), Les Suds, Les Rencontres Internationales de la Photographie,
Festival MIMI, Festival de Martigues, Festival de piano de la Roque d’Anthéron, Festival de l’Emperi,
Festival les Envies Rhônements.

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part 3 :
marseille provence of a thousand faces
September – December
Part 3 takes place under the banner of togetherness. Albert Londres spoke of it as «a hundred faces» in
«Marseille porte du Sud» (1926) : «An immense door through which the hundred faces our vast world flow
in and out.»
Nearly a century later, the region’s faces during this third and final act of the European Capital of Culture
number not one hundred, but one thousand. These faces are first and foremost the great «Mediterranean
figures»—those emblematic personalities who continue to light our consciousness and fuel our
imagination, such as Averroès, Albert Camus, Le Corbusier, Pasolini, Penone, Pistoletto, and others.
As the embodiment of shared experiences, cuisine is a guest of honour at these festivities. The grand
festival of cuisine («Festival Cuisine en Friche») brings us right up close to the local vineyards and culinary
talents, and mixes all of the arts in its pot.
«Metamorphoses» sprinkles its magic throughout the Marseille-Provence region, in places reinvented
for the occasion. Meanwhile, children and parents are invited to enjoy a «holiday workbook»—a multidiscipline
event for children and youth.
→And at a «digital landscape» in Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne rubs shoulders with the latest technology.
Throughout the autumn of 2013, contrasting shades find their deepest hues during a time of celebration
with a thousand faces and a thousand flavours.
festival cuisine en friche (cuisine),
12–15 september, Marseille
Cuisine, in all its forms, is invited to the Friche for a festival of its own.
First, a stroll through a large produce market, hosted on three different levels, where herbs share the
spotlight with spices, and fruits and vegetables match perfectly with local cheeses.
At the tasting and demonstration workshops, visitors taste and try tomatoes, breads, cereals, oils, etc.
Then, everyone cooks and eats together. Meals take place on the roof, in the gardens, under the canopies,
and around the food carts.
It also an occasion to discuss and exchange views on today’s food and nutrition by taking part in debates
→held as round-table discussions or international colloquiums. The «Cuisine in Friche» festival, which brings
together cooks, famous chefs, artists, designers, local growers, scientists and philosophers, invites visitors
to a radically different and convivial gastronomic tour.
innovart – chroniques des mondes possibles (the chronicles of
possible worlds ; new technologies, innovation),
september, aix-en-provence
At the start of the new school year, a large set of events will be held with a variety of disciplines, devoted
to new technologies and innovation. These will take place within the walls of Fondation Vasarely as well as
through urban tours to uncommon places in the town centre and the Pays d’Aix.
With a schedule packed full of popular events and top-quality contemporary creations, this production
presents a «chronicle of possible worlds», combining the talents of the most cutting-edge artists in the
fields of contemporary creativity linked to new technologies.
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→la parade maritime (nature/culture),
7–8 september, Marseille
The maritime world comes alive through a dizzying array of productions and events during
the «September of the Sea», putting their professions and passions on display for a full week
from September 1st to 8th.
On the agenda : presentation of fishing professions and traditions, trips out to sea, sea
food tasting, regattas, and more. Organised by the Office de la Mer (Sea Office), the week
culminates with a local festive weekend celebrated along Marseille’s port and harbour on
September 7th and 8th, with thousands of vessels converging on the area.
→opening of the Éden théâtre (film, theatre),
la ciotat
The re-opening of the Éden, the great-grandfather of the world’s movie theatres, makes La Ciotat the
destination of choice when it comes to the origins and history of film.
The cinematic tour begins at the town’s legendary train station, immortalised by the Lumière brothers in the
film “L’Arrivée du train en gare de La Ciotat”. After passing through the Lumière mansion—the summer
→residence of the cinematic inventors and where they filmed their first films (such as «L’Arroseur arrosé») —
visitors reach the Éden Théâtre, site of the first private showing by the Lumière brothers. Finally, they visit the
Pénitents-Bleus chapel, dedicated to the display of photographs related to film-making.
Métamorphoses,
20 september to 6 october, Marseille and its surroundings
At the behest of the Centre national de création Lieux Publics (National centre for the creation of public
spaces), teams of artists will beautify public spaces. Hailing from all over Europe, they will transform a
gigantic façade into a deforming mirror ; marketplaces, fountains and stairs into as many dance floors ;
streets into cross-cultural music scores or imaginary art galleries; underground corridors into role-playing
scenes or Antarctic zoos ; walls into screens or showcases ; and more.
→
Who would have thought that the whole town could become a gigantic playground ? These artists help us
discover the joys of recasting and transforming, and the pleasure of enjoying urban spaces when shared
with others
camus, l’étranger qui nous ressemble (albert camus, the foreigner
who looks like us, literature), early october 2013 to early january
2014
This exhibition gives visitors from far and wide the opportunity to discover, or rediscover, the writer Albert
Camus, and not only his work, but also the man himself with his complexities and engagements. Novelist,
dramatist, essayist and journalist—Camus was all of these in one. Each facet of his work nourished and
shed light on the others.
→2013 will celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Albert Camus’ birth. Which symbolic figure could more aptly
illustrate the «man of the Mediterranean» than this man who hailed from both of its shores ?
le corbusier, (architecture) ,
mid-september 2013 to mid-january 2014, Marseille
A large exhibition centred around Le Corbusier, one of the greatest figures in the history of architecture and
urban development.
This exhibition takes visitors on a journey of discovery of the legendary architect, with presentations of his
architectural work (plans, models, sketches), as well as the artist himself through his research (drawings,
paintings, sculptures, lithographies, rugs).
There could be no better place for this retrospective look than Marseille, the city on which he stamped a new
style and where he indelibly marked twentieth century architectural history with his «unité d’habitation»
(«living unit») and the «Cité radieuse» («radiant city»).
1

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1
→cahier de vacances (holiday workbook) (children and youth),
october – november, throughout the region
The November school holidays will swing to the rhythm of youth by providing children with a space that
is entirely their own. This includes a large exhibition named «Atlas des mondes imaginaires» («Atlas of
imaginary worlds»), as well as shows (theatre, puppets, dance, circus acts, etc.), a mini rock festival, and
film showings, all of which will take place throughout the region.
→Children can invent, create, play, build cabins, or sail (for real !) on fake boats. School is fun ; but holidays
are so much more fun.
le centre pompidou Mobile (fine arts, modern art),
november, aubagne
The Pompidou Centre makes itself at home in the land of Marcel Pagnol ! Aubagne will welcome the first
«nomadic» museum in the world: the itinerant Pompidou Centre. Visitors can enjoy works from Matisse,
Braque, Picasso as well as Calder, Dubuffet and Léger, against the backdrop of the enchanting landscapes
so beloved by Pagnol. It showcases the best of the permanent collection at the Pompidou Centre in Paris—
Europe’s premier collection of modern and contemporary art.
The 650 m2 occupied by the mobile Pompidou Centre were designed by the architect Patrick Bouchain and
is made up of units fashioned in the spirit of fairground big tops and ambulant circus acts. At Aubagne, the
→mobile Pompidou Centre will spread out along the banks of the Huveaune river, in a fully renovated public
space. Educational tours and activities will make it easy for everyone to enjoy this museum right in the
heart of the town.
This list of projects is not exhaustive. Its purpose is to highlight some of the major events that will
be part of the Marseille-Provence 2013 programme.
A detailed provisional programme is available for download at www.mp2013.fr or from the
Marseille-Provence 2013 media relations team.

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2
Marseille-provence 2013 brings together 97 towns and
communities in a remarkable cultural project, from cities—such
as the internationally-known metropolis of Marseille, aix-enprovence,
and arles—to a host of charming villages and natural
spaces imbued with magical beauty. it’s also a region in full
development.
a region
CAMARGUE
of change
sixty architectural restoration, conversion or construction
projects are under way, representing a total investment of more than 660 million Euros. Rudy Ricciotti,
Kengo Kuma, Stefano Boeri, Jean Nouvel, Frank Gehry, Massimiliano Fuksas and Tadeshi Kawamata—some
of the biggest names in architecture—are designing new sites here. Marseille-
Provence is upgrading its look, but without losing any of the charm of its rich heritage.
ALPILLES
LUBERON
PAYS D’AIX
FRANCE
LES ALPES
DU SUD

5
5
1
3
2
new artistic and cultural projects
6
designed by soMe of the greats of conteMporary
architecture
2
1 - Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe
et de Méditerranée (MuCEM)
Marseille – Rudy Ricciotti
2 - Centre Régional de la Méditerranée
(CEREM)
Marseille – Stefano Boeri
4
3 - Panorama – Friche de la Belle de Mai
Marseille – Mathieu Poitevin
4 - Fond Régional d’Art Contemporain
(FRAC) -
Marseille – Kengo Kuma
5 - Conservatoire de Musique
Aix-en-Provence – Kengo Kuma
6 - Pedestrian street project in the
Vieux-Port
Marseille – Norman Foster

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3
provence-alpes-cote d’aZur,
land of light
in the south of france, nestled between the splendid natural
boundaries of the mountains and the sea, lies a land of light.
its gorgeous landscapes, rich heritage and idyllic «art of
living» have made provence-alpes-côte d’azur one of the most
frequently visited regions of france.
a cultural and touristic
bouches-du-rhône :
2,593 hours of sunshine per year
289 km of coastline
50% of its area occupied by nature reserves
850 km² of reserves and natural parks
107,300 hectares of wooded areas
2,700 km of hiking trails
capital
A region spoiled by nature’s bounties. boasting a coastline nearly 900 km
long, flanked by the forests of Esterel and Maures, the wild Camargue wetlands, and rocky inlets, its
Mediterranean shoreline is a storehouse of exceptional beauty.
Further inland, emblematic sites such as Sainte-Victoire, Alpilles, Luberon, Mont Ventoux and Verdon
never fail to impress visitors with the magic of their landscapes. Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
also includes jewels of architecture, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites : the Abbey
of Montmajour near Arles, the Palais des Papes in Avignon, and the Théâtre Antique in Orange. Quaint
little villages bustle with workshops where craftsman carry on the cultural arts of their forefathers,
such as glazed earthenware, pottery and the making of «santons», small hand-painted figurines typical
of the region. to the north and east lie the mountains, the national parks of Ecrins and
Mercantour, and the Queyras regional park, home to protected and highly diverse natural reserves. With an
abundance of flora, including larch, edelweiss, blue thistle, wormwood, pines, and much more, the Southern
Alps can be visited all year round.
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is also among those destinations which for generations have inspired
artists seeking grand natural backdrops for their masterpieces. The quality and variety of available
accommodation and excellent places to eat, as well as a profusion of cultural
events, round out the extraordinary attractions of this internationally renowned region.
bouches-du-rhône—a rainbow of diversity
Passionate about culture ? Enjoy shopping ? Love nature ? Looking for diversion ? No problem ! Bouches-du-
Rhône has it all. Kayak along rocky inlets. Visit museums. Eat at top-rated restaurants. A host of activities
await. It’s no wonder that 10 million visitors from around the world flock to Bouches-du-Rhône
every year. With three distinct areas, the region is a rainbow of diversity. Marseille: exuberant,
urbanite, dynamic, transforming, a stage overflowing with cultural activity. camargue :
wild, authentic, free, where nature is king. provence : the joy of living,
natural, filled with tranquillity. Here, time stops while we take in the simple joys of
olive groves, vineyards and the surrounding countryside. three territories.
three personalities. three philosophies. Hundreds of
activities.

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1 international airport
in the heart of the region
(Montpellier, Toulon,
Nîmes, Nice)
3
Located at the crossroads of northern and southern Europe, the region enjoys a privileged position around
the Mediterranean circle. The Marseille-Provence region can be reached by all means of transport
via the Marseille-Provence airport (which includes the mp2 terminal dedicated to «low cost» airlines), the
port of Marseille, railway connections, and motorways to Italy, Spain and northern France which provide
quick links from the region to the rest of Europe.
a privileged geographic location
3 TGV (high-speed) train stations
(Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon) connect
to Paris in 3 hours
1 passenger and cargo port (Marseille) with
a dedicated cruise ship terminal (1 million
cruise passengers expected in 2012)
4 motorways intersect the region

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marseille,
4
city of the past
and the future
euro-Mediterranean metropolis and capital of provence,
Marseille is a city full of passion and contrasts that touches
every visitor it welcomes. there is no «ideal time» to visit
Marseille, since its charm extends across all four seasons.
No need to travel thousands of miles to «get away». With 300 days of sunshine a year,
Marseille is a temple to the art of living. Sun-kissed aperitifs on terraces, leisurely games of petanque,
long lunches in countryside cottages, inspiring excursions at sea ... the joys of living are to be
found everywhere, everyday. Marseille’s unique radiance has also fascinated some of the
world’s greatest painters. Cézanne, Renoir, Dufy and many others have praised its beauty.
Each neighbourhood has carefully preserved its own identity. From large shopping avenues, to the
charming back streets of the Panier quartier, to balmy evening strolls along the cliffs—this city has it all,
including an outstanding coastline spanning 57 km with views that can only be described as
staggering. The rocky inlets of Sormiou, Port-Miou, Les Goudes and Sugiton are tastes of paradise, and soon
to be classified as a national natural reserve. Marseille is also a city that strongly embraces
plurality, to the delight of its residents and visitors.
2600 years of history meets bold new enterprise
Marseille is rooted in 2600 years of cosmopolitan history. Walled old towns, industrial
wastelands, historical sites—each neighbourhood testifies, in its own way, of the city’s rich history. No
visit of the city is complete without a stop at the basilica of notre-dame-de-la-garde, the city’s
symbolic guardian and protectress. The view is breathtaking.
While deeply rooted in the past, Marseille is also a resolutely modern city, in full expansion and bursting
with energy. Urbanism, transportation, culture, tourism, conferences, cruises—all the city’s business
sectors are involved. The city’s makeover is felt particularly strongly at the Euroméditerranée, the largest
urban renovation project in southern Europe, where internationally renowned architects are making their
mark.
Getting around Marseille is easier than ever. The city is criss-crossed by a network of trams,
underground lines, buses and bicycle lanes, carrying visitors from one neighbourhood
to another, from one discovery to the next. Tourists wishing to extend their stay can take their pick from
among the city’s 6,700 hotel rooms, ranging from five stars to small family-run inns. Some of the world’s
biggest hotel groups, including Accor, Intercontinental, Radisson SAS and Concorde, have chosen Marseille
as a showcase for their expertise.
2013—an eventful year
in 2013, lovers of culture are in for a treat ! throughout the
year—which will be divided into three major periods—Marseille
will play host to performances and exhibitions that will appeal
to audiences and tastes of all kinds. the programme will be
eclectic, original and captivating !
The European Capital of Culture Marseille-Provence 2013 will open on January 12th and 13th under the banner
of «welcoming the world».

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4
The festivities invite the city’s residents and visitors alike to enjoy an exceptional programme throughout
the day and night of Saturday, January 12th, including a show by the Patrouille de France (French air force
aerobatic demonstration team), a contemporary art tour, the inauguration of new cultural sites, the Grande
Clameur (comic theatre), musical balls and stage performances, and pyrotechnic spectacles.
On Sunday, January 13th, a giant treasure hunt will be held throughout the entire region under the colours of
the Capital of Culture.
the opening weekend will be followed by an extraordinary
programme of events at all of the region’s cultural sites.
following is a (non-exhaustive) list of some of the highlights,
an enticing glimpse of just some of what awaits the residents of
Marseille and visitors throughout this year like no other.
→
→
→
→
→
→
→
ici, ailleurs, a Contemporary Art exhibition in honour of the inauguration of the Panorama de la
Friche la Belle-de-Mai, from 12 January to 7 April.
a photographic exhibition by josef KoudelKa at the Vieille Charité, from
mid-January to mid-April. With this retrospective, visitors can retrace the steps of the photographer
through the ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites of the Mediterranean basin.
an archaeological exhibition, «le trésor des Marseillais», at the Vieille
Charité, from mid-January to mid-April. This treasure was originally offered by the Massalites
(ancient inhabitants of Marseille) to the Greek gods at Delphi in the sixth century B.C. This
extraordinary exhibition includes a 3D reconstruction of the temple of Delphi, providing a fascinating
journey through time and history.
the «navigations et Méditerranées» blockbuster exhibition, at J1, in the
city’s docklands, from 12 January to 12 May. With Ulysses as guide, the exhibition whisks visitors on
a journey through time and space, from the Trojan wars to the twenty-first century.
la folle histoire des arts de la rue, in May 2013. Artists stage the most unexpected
performances in the streets. Jubilation !
the inauguration of the MuceM, a magnificent museum dedicated to European and
Mediterranean civilisations, with the civilisation-based «le Noir et le Bleu» exhibition in May–June.
transhumance in June 2013. An incredible expedition through
Marseille by a gigantic caravan of animals hailing from Morocco,
Italy and Provence.
an exhibition, «le grand atelier
du Midi» at the Musée des Beaux-Arts at the
Palais Longchamp, from 13 June to 13 October.
A work in two parts in collaboration with the
Musée Granet in Aix-en-Provence; the Marseille
portion eponymously titled, «From Van Gogh to
Bonnard».
With Métamorphoses, held in
September–October, teams of artists will
transform the city, allowing all to discover the joys
of recasting and transforming, and the pleasure of
enjoying urban spaces when shared with others.
the pavillon
de Marseille in the heart
of the vieux-port
The Pavillon de Marseille, in the heart of the
Espace Villeneuve Bargemon in the Vieux-Port, will
remain open throughout the entire year of 2013.
This pavilion, the main information centre for 2013
hosted in collaboration between Marseille-Provence
2013 and the Tourism Office, will also house a
reception area as well as an exhibition centre of
the best of Marseille, showcasing the region’s
industries and expertise.

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aix-en-provence,
sitting at an important geographical, cultural and touristic
crossroads, aix-en-provence is a key european destination.
it has everything needed to satisfy one’s historical curiosity,
thirst for culture, or yearning for the small pleasures of life
with its sunny terraces and gourmet restaurants. just a few
kilometres away, the pays d’aix offers visitors magnificent
villages and well-preserved and treasured landscapes.
Graced with an architectural beauty that stirs the emotions, this historic capital of Provence is best
enjoyed through leisurely strolls down its time-honoured streets. While enriched by its past, Aix-en-Provence
is also contemporary, a true cultural melting pot with enough to satisfy the appetites of all comers.
Not content to stop there, the city is also skilled in the authentic art of living, offering fragrant
cuisine, local wines, a multitude of café terraces to choose from and charming boutiques.
sainte-victoire and charming villages
Just outside Aix-en-Provence, one can enjoy sun-kissed walks through olive groves, cyprus
trees and vineyards, while those who prefer something more physically demanding can set off to
conquer the majestic sainte-victoire, classified as a «Grand Site de France». This «Provence par
excellence» includes many charming villages with centuries of history, culture and tradition. In
short, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a wide range of interests !
2013, new art forMs
During Marseille Provence 2013, Aix and the Pays d’Aix will offer a widely diverse cultural agenda, with
particular focus on blossoming new artistic forms, and a host of multi-discipline events held throughout the
year. Spring and autumn will be key periods for Aix and the Pays d’Aix, when a special emphasis will be placed
on this area. Among the major events not to be missed are :
→
transhumance, the largest gathering of animals in Europe. Flocks of sheep and horses will
travel from Italy and Morocco to converge in Provence, passing through many villages of the Pays d’Aix.
→→→
→
→
a Melting pot
of cultures and
lifestyles
The international circus of Grand Saint Jean.
The albert camus exhibition at the Cité du Livre.
cadavre exquis, a Euro-Mediterranean contemporary art production which will take place at
the Musée Granet.
The «grand atelier du Midi», also to be held at the Musée Granet, centred around a
work in two parts. The first part, titled From Van Gogh to Bonnard, will be presented at the Palais
Longchamp in Marseille, while the second, From Cézanne to Matisse, will be presented at the Musée
Granet in Aix-en-Provence.
The grande randonnée, a new type of long-distance art-themed hiking, leads from the town
into the countryside. Over 200 kilometres long, this unique and unordinary route is in the shape of an
infinite figure eight, with the TGV Aix train station at its centre.peu ordinaire suit un tracé en forme de
huit, une double boucle qui évoque l’infini dont le centre est la gare Aix-TGV.
4

21
arles,
ancient city
caMargue4
and
gateway to the
Arles, city of art and history, has for 30 years held the honour of being awarded three World Heritage
Site titles by unesco. It is home to incomparable archaeological wealth which includes its ancient town
centre and numerous roman and romanesque monuments. Arles is also recognised by
UNESCO as part of the world heritage saint jacques de compostelle (St. James’ Way) pilgrimage
route. Last but not least, Arles is the capital of the Camargue delta, a natural reserve of global importance and
part of the international network of UNESCO biosphere reserves. Its combination of history, culture and
nature, is unique.
Today, the name of Arles is intimately linked with that of van gogh. The famed painter’s stay in Arles was
his most productive in terms of drawings and paintings, with over 300 works created in the space of 15 months.
Literature, costumes and traditional festivals have made Arles the capital of provencal culture.
Each season is marked by many events, making Arles a perfect destination for photography, music,
literature, theatre and bull fighting.
arles, in 2013 : a very special year !
For the opening of the capital of culture year, group f, with its roots in Camargue but famous the world over
for its pyrotechnic shows, will light up the skies above the town of Arles.
→Other major events will be scheduled throughout the year, including :
“rodin, l’ombre de l’antique” at the Musée départemental arles antique
Rodin’s major sculptures will be on display along with masterpieces from Antiquity.
A new extension to the museum will feature the wreck of a Roman galley.
christian lacroix – Museon arlaten
Christian Lacroix shows us his views on the memories held by the streets and stones of Arles.
nuages – Musée réattu
An exhibition dedicated to clouds. Sculptures, art installations, paintings, sound-based art, photographic
works, film, and decorative art, with the likes of Magritte, Brassaï, Man Ray and Andy Warhol. In all, 200
works by over 40 artists !
le retour de vincent – fondation van gogh
In 2013, the Fondation Vincent Van Gogh opens its doors at the Hôtel Léautaud de Donines. Its activities
will include exhibitions, educational workshops and artist residencies.
tadashi Kawamata – camargue regional natural reserve
Using both sculpture and architecture, the Japanese artist will create a journey through six works of
contemporary art implanted into the Camargue landscape.
les reliques de saint césaire – eglise saint trophime
The relics of Saint Césaire d’Arles, the most ancient relics of the western Christian world, will be on display
in the Church of Saint-Trophime.
Méjan and actes sud: «exhibitions, invention du sauvage» highlights the
history of men, women and children who have come from elsewhere, as shown in the West.
→
→
→
→
→

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→
→
→
The parc des ateliers project by the luMa foundation : features a huge
landscaped park/garden on the former grounds of an industrial wasteland designed by Franck Gehry.
photography : the 2013 edition of rencontres d’arles is dedicated to «a new look
at the arab world».
the festival des suds : «nomadisme et deltas» presents a musical journey into
the very heart of the delta, with the Gypsy people as its theme.
les cavalcades méditerranéennes : the multiple facets of the art of horse riding (the
Spanish Riding School of Vienna, the Royal Riding School of Jerez, and the Cadre Noir of Saumur).
digital pathways : a worldwide first. «Ribandelles», ribbons inspired by traditional Arles
costumes and threaded with LED lights, mark out theme- or event-based tours throughout the town.
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le pays d’aubagne
et de l’etoile, the spirit
on the hills between the inlets of cassis and the lights of
Marseille lies the pays d’aubagne et de l’etoile, a real-life
museum under the open skies. here, the art of clay making has
been practised for generations.
«I was born in the village of Aubagne, beneath the Garlaban mountain scattered with goats, at the time of
the last goatherds,» wrote Marcel Pagnol. Here lie the famed hills of pagnol’s childhood, in a
land full of freedom and adventure. The magnificent landscapes of sainte baume and etoile
offer an array of unordinary cultural discoveries of national heritage, off the
beaten path just a few steps from the Mediterranean Sea.
the art of clay making : that ancient union of fire and earth, has earned a well-deserved
reputation in the Pays d’Aubagne et de l’Etoile. It’s a tradition that remains alive and well to this day.
The 40 pottery and «santonnier» (figurine) workshops still in operation continue to
practice their age-old craft with passion.
Lovers of gourmet food will be delighted by the Provencal soil’s star appearance at the famous local markets,
its produce labelled with «les jardins du Pays d’Aubagne» (the gardens of the Pays d’Aubagne). Restaurants
who have signed the terroir et patrimoine (soil and heritage) charter outdo each other
in displaying talent and creativity, to the delight of gourmet palettes.
pottery and conteMporary art : the 2013
guest of honour
pompidou Mobile
→
of the hills 4
In 2013, the Pompidou Centre makes itself at home in the land of Marcel Pagnol! Starting in
November, Aubagne will be the site of the first «nomadic» museum in the world :
the itinerant Pompidou Centre. As they stroll along the banks of the Huveaune river, visitors can
enjoy works from Matisse, braque, picasso as well as Calder, Dubuffet and Léger, set
against the backdrop of the enchanting landscapes so beloved by Pagnol. It showcases the best of
the permanent collection at the Pompidou Centre in Paris—Europe’s premier collection of modern
and contemporary art. Educational tours and activities will make it easy for everyone to enjoy this
→museum right in the heart of the town.
picasso céramiste et la Méditerranée, beaux-arts
27 avril – 13 octobre 2013
This significant and magnificent exhibition, titled Picasso céramiste et la Méditerranée (Picasso:
ceramic artist and the Mediterranean), will be presented in the Pénitents Noirs chapel. The
exhibition’s theme—the use of ceramics in Picasso’s work—is appropriate given that the Pays
d’Aubagne et de l’Etoile is home to many workshops still in operation today.
In the 1950s, Picasso used a range of mediums to explore the subject of Mediterranean civilisation.
The master artist embraced the art of pottery with as much genius and vitality as he did sculpting
and painting. picasso céramiste et la Méditerranée presents 120 works,
including some which have never before been publicly exhibited.

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This exhibition will be part of the grand atelier du Midi, the MP2013 flagship event, with
«De Van Gogh à Bonnard» shown at the Palais-Longchamp in Marseille, «De Cézanne à Matisse» at
→the Musée Granet in Aix-en-Provence, and «Dufy» at the Musée Ziem in Martigues.
argilla
3rd weekend in august.
This yearly event turns Aubagne into the largest earthenware market in france,
with 170 craftsmen from all over the country and abroad, attended by over 70,000 visitors in the
space of two days. It’s a festive atmosphere full of colour, culture and discovery. The 2013 edition
will be an extraordinary one, not to be missed, with artistic dance tours in potterythemed
settings and the participation of local residents as well as Mediterranean
→ceramic artists in residency.
«de villages en collines» : a hiking festival
Aren’t hiking and walking an art in themselves ? And so, hiking will have a festival of its own as a
festive part of the artistic GR 2013 route. The towns and villages of the Pays d’Aubagne et de l’Etoile
will share the spotlight from 4–12 May 2013, treating visitors to an unordinary journey of
→artistic discovery off the beaten path.
transhumance
Un des trois départs de cette épopée humaine et animale aura lieu à Cuges : Cavaliers et chevaux
d’Italie ont rendez-vous à Cuges avant le départ du caravansérail en route vers la plaine de la Crau
après un passage par le village d Auriol.

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with its intimate feel, the town of salon-de-provence inspires a
desire to stroll around and discover its charms. its monuments,
museums and festivals attract lovers of culture all year round.
salon-de-provence,
Overlooking the Crau plain, the Château de l’Empéri is one of the oldest fortresses in provence.
Today it houses the Conservatoire du Costume Militaire Français (military costume history museum) with
outstanding collections on display. The town’s bustling historic centre lies within ancient fortified walls,
and includes the Tour de l’Horloge, the Eglise Saint-Michel, and the Tour du Bourg Neuf. The magnificent
Collégiale Saint-Laurent and the Hôtel de Ville, built in the classical style, are also classified as
historical monuments. As to the astounding fontaine Moussue, it has become the
favourite meeting place of local residents and one of the symbols of Salon-de-Provence.
Two personalities of the Renaissance era are emblematic of this town : The astrologer and doctor Michel de
Nostredame, known as nostradamus, who here wrote his famous «Centuries» in his house which is
now a museum ; and the hydro engineer Adam de Craponne who built an irrigation system that has remained
vital to the entire region to this day.
«nature-filled» scenery
Salon-de-Provence is surrounded by the hills of tallagard, a great place to hike, the green crau,
where select AOC (quality-controlled) hay is grown, and the dry crau, land of sheep herding. This soil and
land is an important source of nature’s bounties, including olive oil, fruit and vegetables, and sheep, as well
as a place for leisure activities.
traditional skills and high flyers
a new art of living
in provence
Two soap factories carry on the artisanal making of authentic savon de Marseille (soap). Before
setting off on a tour around the world, the prestigious patrouille de france rehearses its aerial
ballet in the skies above Salon-de-Provence.
→
2013, a year of uniQue events
gr2013, a new breed of hiking routes
starting in March
Created by hiking artists and crossing through Salon-de-Provence, the GR2013 provides the
→opportunity to experience the diversity of scenery, historical heritage and lifestyle present throughout
Provence’s towns and countryside.
taysir batniji exhibition, l’article 13 de la déclaration
april – May
Dedicated to the full range of the works of this Palestinian plastic artist, this exhibition will also
include his work created at the Marius Fabre soap factory as part of the Euro-Mediterranean
Workshop.

26
→
→
→
transhumance, festive stop at the domaine du Merle, may
The final stop of the herds hailing from Italy, in the unique setting of the Domaine du Merle. Two days
of festivities provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy this gigantic choreography of man and beast.
60th anniversary of the «patrouille de france» on air base 701, may
An international gathering of air show squadrons, during which the prestigious PAF will unveil its
2013 programme, created in collaboration with the choreographer Kitsou Dubois.
raymond reynaud: un singulier de l’art, an exhibition at the
lamanon, june – september
This artist-artisan’s remarkable and unique art, made of oil gouaches and totems, defies
→classification, and elicits astonishment followed by awe.
felice varini: une histoire de point de vue, château de l’empéri,
june – december
→
→
The French-Swiss artist’s art explores enclosed and urban architectural spaces, which he uses as the
canvas for his gigantic painted geometric shapes.
empéri music festival: chamber music,
late july – early august
Music from around Europe and the Mediterranean performed by great soloists.
salon public: le festival des arts de la rue et du cirque,
late september,
A must see of the world of street art. Compagnie OPUS, the guest of honour for these three days of
excitement, will be welcoming artists from Marrakech in collaboration with the Festival Alwan’art.
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istres,
provence of the laKes 4
authenticity. water. blossom. sports. festivals. culture. istres is
a land of contrasts. located at the confluence of the camargue,
the crau and the Mediterranean, nestled between hills and
lakes, it offers wide range of scenery and possibilities !
Istres boasts a rich and varied architectural heritage, with a historic town centre dating back
to the Middle ages, and small, picturesque squares. The town has preserved its typically
provencal character, as evidenced by its plane trees, terraces and fountains. Istres is also a town
that celebrates water, with the highest water fountain in France, five lakes, a marina and beaches.
Home to the Crau, the last of the great European steppes, as well as to gardens bursting with green, this
town, awarded «four flowers»—the highest of its kind in France—offers magnificent contrasting
countrysides waiting to be discovered. Twice voted the «sportiest town in france», in 1989 and
2000, Istres has over 140 sports facilities.
istres—festivities and culture
Istres’ well-deserved reputation also rests in part on its culture. The centre educatif et culturel
includes over twenty facilities including a dance centre, music conservatory and multimedia library. The
théâtre de l’olivier offers audiences a quality season of stage performances. The l’usine music
cafe hosts a variety of «new music scene» concerts. Events are held all throughout the year, including
traditional festivals such as the Bergers, Féria, and Saint-Jean, as well as the nuits d’istres
featuring internationally renowned artists.
→
→
2013, cultures of Many stripes
In 2013, the Magic Mirrors will be one of the key acts of the Temps Fort Cirque, as part of the
acclaimed Festival des Arts du Geste first created in Istres in 1999 and combining circus acts and
dance.
gr 2013 and transhumance will find Istres a unique addition to their routes, since it is
a place where the time-honoured tradition of shepherding continues to this day.
The «parcours de l’eau», a journey linking various natural springs and bodies of water,
showcases the area’s local heritage. At the end of June, the fête de l’eau will present a number
of entertaining and educational shows, including musical and artistic performances along the banks
of Lake Olivier all throughout the day. Local residents will gather for a parade and a grand spectacle.
→The forum des arts, a downtown area dedicated to contemporary art will be inaugurated with
an exhibition by daniel buren. The sculptor will also lend his artistic skills to the redecorated
→→
town centre and create a perennial work of art on the banks of Lake Olivier.
The Parc Des Salles will become a temple of urban culture as part of this is not Music.
scientific culture will also be celebrated through university debates and a fair dedicated to
the challenges of sustainable development.

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martigues,
an island in provence 4
«Martigues is a town built not on the sea shore, but in the sea
itself». this quote from alexandre dumas clearly illustrates the
unique charm of this «venice of provence».
Flanked by the sea on either side, and bathed in that incomparable marine light, Martigues has
attracted the greatest painters and most famous film-makers. This little venice
is criss-crossed by a series of bridges that straddle the canals flowing between the Mediterranean Sea and
the Etang de Berre. The large parc de figuerolles provides a sea of green where a number of openair
activities are enjoyed in nature. 60% of the commune’s territory is covered with
wooded and protected natural spaces. Just a stone’s throw away, the Mediterranean «côte
bleue» dazzles with a succession of inlets, beaches and fishing harbours, offering a preserved environment
that has become a paradise for water sports and leisure activities.
Martigues cultivates its southern pace and lifestyle with a cuisine that combines sea food with Provencal
flavours. The town’s specialities include the poutargue, dried and salted mullet eggs ; mélets,
prepared with anchovies and fennel ; and bourride, a bouillabaisse made from white fish. Restaurants
participating in the terroir et patrimoine programme are committed to maintaining the local
culinary traditions.
artists from around the world
Life in Martigues hums to the rhythm of the seasons with 400 events each year, including the Fête
de la Mer, the Nuit Vénitienne, and the Festival de Martigues, which welcomes 500 artists from 5 continents
for performances showcasing the arts and local traditions as well as contemporary and world music.
The town is a pleasure to explore, with its historical and protected sites and
monuments, archaeological heritage and modern architecture. The town is also home to a number
of high-quality cultural venues, such as the Théâtre des Salins (awarded the French «scène
nationale» title), the Musée Ziem, the Galerie de l’Histoire de Martigues, and the Prosper Gnidzaz film theatre
which shows a unique collection of films.
Martigues 2013—painting, cuisine and hiKing
→in 2013, Martigues will host some major events.
dufy, de Martigues à l’estaque, at the Musée Ziem
This monographic exhibition is part of the grand atelier du Midi, and plays counterpoint to
the main two-part exhibition (De Van Gogh à Bonnard at the Palais Longchamp in Marseille, and De
→Cézanne à Matisse at the Musée Granet in Aix en Provence).
transhumance, at Martigues and saint-Mitre-les-remparts
Amid the frantic pace of our modern lives, TransHumance stands out as a new artistic experience.
The Théâtre du Centaure invites one and all to slow down and enjoy part of this long walk alongside
animals and at their pace.

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→gr®2013
Throughout the whole region of Marseille and Provence, urban areas, countrysides, commercial areas
and roads jostle with and crisscross one another. These unique circumstances gave birth to the
GR2013 project. The Martigues-ranquet segment provides the first «soft» transport link in
→the route, with a metropolitan path punctuated with events.
bouche à oreille, port de bouc
Building on the local success of the «sardinades» (summer evening events) of Port-de-Bouc, these
evenings—hosted in conjunction with the GR2013—combine culinary arts, music and living arts
designed to encourage intercultural and intergenerational encounters centred around the culinary
and oral traditions of the Mediterranean countries.

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what is a
european
capital of culture ?
first granted by the european union in 1985, the title of
european capital of culture is a coveted and sought-after
distinction that attracts a large number of tourists and visitors
and generates significant knock-on effects.
Each year, the title is conferred on two cities or regions chosen through an international contest,
for the space of a year. The initiative was originally launched by the Greek Minister of Culture, Melina
Mercouri, and the French Minister of Culture, Jack Lang, with the goal of bringing citizens of the
european union closer together.
PFor the winning cities, it provides the opportunity to showcase a high concentration of
european cultural excellence for a full year, and give a large and festive welcome
to visitors from all over Europe and around the world. Lille attracted 9 million visitors and 4,000 reporters
as Capital of Culture in 2004. In 2008, Liverpool welcomed 15 million visitors. Ruhr 2010 generated 65,000
press reports and 225 hours of TV news reporting On the financial side, the year is expected to generate over
600 million euros in related revenue throughout the Marseille-Provence region.
past, current and future european capitals
of culture
Since 1985, more than 40 cities have been designated as European Capitals of Culture, including
Stockholm, Genoa, Athens, Glasgow, Krakow and Porto. The 2012 Capitals are Guimarães in Portugal and
Maribor in Slovenia.
in 2013, Marseille provence will share the
spotlight with Kosice in slovaKia.
These two cities will then pass the torch to Umeå in Sweden and Riga in Lithuania, in 2014.
To date, only three French cities have been awarded the coveted title of European Capital of Culture : paris
in 1989, avignon in 2000, and lille in 2004. According to the rules governing the
awarding of the title (updated in 2006), France must wait at least another 10 years before one of its cities
qualifies for candidacy.
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media contacts
“Marseille-provence 2013”
Media agent : Lylia Abbes
Tel: +33 (0)491 137 743 – Email : lylia.abbes@mp2013.fr
www.mp2013.fr
bouches-du-rhône tourisme
Media relations manager : Marie Lansonneur
Tel: +33 (0)491 138 406 – Email : mlansonneur@visitprovence.com
www.visitprovence.com
provence-alpes-côte d’azur tourism board
Head of Press : Susanne Zürn-Seiller
Tél. : +33 (0)4 91 56 47 13 – Email : s.zurn-seiller@crt-paca.fr
www.pressetourismepaca.fr
Marseille tourist and
convention bureau
4, la Canebière – 13001 Marseille
Tel : +33 (0)826 500 500
www.marseille-tourisme.com
Media agent : Marion Fabre
mfabre@marseille-tourisme.com
T. +33 (0)4 91 13 99 73 - P. +33 (0)6 73 86 09 78
aix-en-provence
tourist office
300 avenue Giuseppe Verdi - BP 160
13605 Aix-en-Provence cedex 1
T. +33 (0)442 161 161
www.aixenprovencetourism.com
Media agent : Sophie Bramoullé
sbramoulle@aixenprovencetourism.com
T.+33 (0)4 42 16 10 07
arles tourist office
Esplanade Charles De Gaulle / Boulevard des Lices
13200 ARLES
T. +33 (0)4 90 18 41 20 - www.arlestourisme.com
Media agent : Francine Riou
f.riou@arlestourisme.com - T. +33 (0)4 90 18 41 24
tourist office of country of
aubagne et de l’Étoile
8 cours Barthélémy - 13400 Aubagne
T. +33 (0)4 42 03 49 98
www.oti-paysdaubagne.com
Media agent : Anthony Chesneau
anthony.c@oti-paysdaubagne.com
salon-de-provence tourist office
56, cours Gimon - 13300 Salon de Provence
T. +33 (0)4 90 56 27 60
www.visitsalondeprovence.com
Media agent : Sabine Canonica
sabine.canonica@free.fr – P. +33 (0)6 25 45 77 44
istres tourist office
30, allée Jean Jaurès – 13800 Istres
T. +33 (0)4 42 81 76 00 - www.istres.fr
Media agent : Carol Labbe
clabbe@istres.fr
Martigues tourist office
Rond point de l’hôtel de ville - 13500 Martigues
T. +33 (0)4 42 42 31 10
www.martigues-tourisme.com
Media agent : Michèle Biet
mbiet@martigues-tourisme.com
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