Théâtre National de La Criée and the South Quay
Why is it significant?
Take your position along the Quai de Rive Neuve before the striking brick and limestone facade of the Théâtre National de La Criée, an emblem of Marseille's working maritime heritage.
Key Facts
| Place | Théâtre National de La Criée and the South Quay |
|---|---|
| Address | Quai de Rive Neuve 30, 13007 Marseille, France |
| Geo Coordinates | 43.29280, 5.36720 |
| Part of Walk | Saint-Victor, Notre-Dame de la Garde and Vauban: From Fortified Abbey to the Golden Virgin |
| Generated | Generated |
Take your position along the Quai de Rive Neuve before the striking brick and limestone facade of the Théâtre National de La Criée, an emblem of Marseille's working maritime heritage. Erected in 1909 to house the municipal wholesale fish auction for the city's fishing fleet, this expansive industrial hall bustled for seven decades with dawn auctions where fishermen unloaded fresh scorpionfish, conger eels, and sea bream. In May 1981, under the passionate direction of celebrated stage director Marcel Maréchal and municipal leaders, the former fish market was reborn as a premier center for contemporary French theater featuring an eight-hundred-seat main auditorium. The historic street elevation retains its monumental stone pediment carved with city crests and marine motifs, beneath which theatergoers now enter light-filled open lobbies. Before you, the calm waters of the Old Port reflect tightly moored rows of modern yachts and traditional wooden pointu fishing boats. Fresh sea breezes carry the invigorating scents of salt and tar, intermingling with dark espresso aromas drifting from bustling dockside cafes. This popular crossroads bridges honest working waterfront roots with the rich poetry of Mediterranean dramatic art. Morning sunlight bathes the south quay in golden warmth while locals stroll at a relaxed pace. You stand at the threshold of the port's historic southern shore, rich in authentic local character.
Look up at the grand pediment: the original inscription reading Halle municipale aux poissons remains proudly carved in stone above the modern entrance doors.
Fish auctions here operated by descending voice: the auctioneer shouted out a high starting price and dropped rapidly until a buyer shouted the winning word.
Marcel Maréchal inaugurated the theater with a production of The Three Musketeers, bringing live galloping horses onto the stage before an electrified audience.
Walk west along the Quai de Rive Neuve toward the careening basin and the Rampe Saint-Maurice.