Palais du Pharo

Perched on a headland at the mouth of the old port, this palace was commissioned in the mid-nineteenth century as an imperial residence overlooking the sea. Though the emperor never lived there, the elegant building and its surrounding gardens now serve as a congress centre and public park. The lawns offer one of the finest free viewpoints in Marseille, framing the harbour entrance and the basilica on the opposite hill. Sunset from the terraces is a favourite gathering ritual for residents.