Marseille

We have now arrived back in southern France in the very scenic port city of Marseille, after an eight hour train journey from Barcelona.  The journey by train was fairly pleasant as we went past the wonderful blue Mediterranean Sea, however first class in our first connection left a lot to be desired. But we arrived here on time and checked into our huge aparment.  We are staying in an older part of town easy walking distance to the sights of Marseille, in a very old building with lots of character and charm.  By far the most room we have had since we have left home.

Vieux-Port

This city is built around a very dramatic port called the Vieux-Port, filled with yachts and sailing boats of all sizes.  The town is a maze of small streets surrounding the port area and you can easily get lost in these small lanes and walkways attempting to cross the city.  But we are getting a real handle on the city and able to access all areas very easily.

Notre-Dome de la Garde

By far the most dramatic sight in Marseille is the church on the hill over looking the city called Notre-Dame de la Garde.  This amazing cathedral sits high above the city and has amazing vistas in all directions from the sea to the port of Marseille.  We have seen alot of churches in our travels and each has it's own charm and beauty, but this church is by far the prettist, with it's delicate mozaics of gold leaf in the interior domes and the beautiful sculpture of the Mary and baby Jesus mounted on the highest part of the church overlooking the city.

View of the beautiful domes

The city has a very different feel the Paris, much more worn and dirty, but the people here are way more friendly then the Parisians.  Everyone you meet here is very warm and welcoming and is putting up with our poor french.  But one thing that will stick with both of us about both Paris and Marseille, is the doggie doo doo everywhere.  You can not walk down the streets of these two french cities without having to do the doggie doo doo two step.  Not sure why they just let them do this but it is on all the sidewalks, maybe it is because there is very little park space here.  But everyone here has a dog, even spotted a scottie this morning, made us miss Maphew.