Marseille’s European Heritage Days: An Immersive Cultural Experience on Saturday, September 8th at [mac]

September 11, 2025

Marseille’s Contemporary Art Scene Flourishes with New Exhibitions and Public Programs

Marseille, France – The Museum of Contemporary Art (mac) is set to host a series of compelling exhibitions and engaging activities during the European heritage and Matrimony Days, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors of all ages.This event promises a deep dive into contemporary creation, showcasing both renowned artists and innovative new voices.

Exploring the Depths of ‘The Watchers’ by Ali Cherri

A central attraction is the exhibition “The Watchers” by Ali Cherri, running from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This immersive installation thoughtfully integrates pieces drawn from various Marseille museums – including the museum of African, Oceanian and Amerindian Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Archaeology – and places them in dialog with Cherri’s sculpted and video works. The exhibition challenges conventional notions of heritage and museum displays, creating a dynamic interplay between objects of different origins and eras.

Several guided tours are scheduled to enhance visitor understanding. A ‘Dialogue Visit’ will be held at 11 a.m., a ‘Family Visit’ at 2 p.m., and a ‘Commented Visit’ at 4 p.m. Shorter ‘Flash Visits’ offering focused insights into specific artworks or themes will be available at 10:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 4:30 p.m. At 11 a.m., Benoît Martin, director of the maaoa Museum, will offer a special tour showcasing selections from his museum’s collection as featured in “The Watchers.”

Laure Prouvost‘s Cinematic Journey: “They Were Ideal For”

Visitors can also experience Laure Prouvost’s film, “They Were Ideal For” (2019), a captivating cinematic journey spanning locations from Nanterre to Venice, including the Calanques de Marseille. The film follows a diverse cast of characters – a Franco-Gabonese hip-hop dancer, a retired teacher, and various artists and musicians – exploring themes of language and cultural identity. Prouvost’s work frequently employs playful linguistic experiments, adding another layer of intrigue to the viewing experience.

Additionally, a continuous screening of Prouvost’s artist films, in partnership with FID, will be offered, featuring titles such as “Swallow,” “Grandma’s Dream,” and “Walking Story,” totaling 52 minutes of her signature biting and humorous phantasmagories.

Discovering the Mac’s Diverse Collection and Beyond

The mac’s permanent collection, encompassing works from the 1960s to the present day, provides a extensive overview of artistic movements including new Realism, Narrative Figuration, and Arte Povera. The collection continually evolves with new acquisitions from artists like Anita Molinero and Ghada Amer, alongside contributions from the Cirva International Center for Glass and Plastic Arts.

At 4 p.m., a guided tour will explore the Central Park of Bonneveine, adjacent to the mac, highlighting its sculptures by artists such as Jean-Michel Alberola and César, as well as the ongoing renovation and renaturation project slated for completion in 2026. A 3 p.m. tour will unlock the treasures of the mac’s documentation center, showcasing exhibition catalogs, essays, and other resources for art enthusiasts and researchers.

Family-Kind Activities Abound

The mac is dedicated to engaging visitors of all ages. A dedicated ‘family Visit’ at 2 p.m. offers a specially designed experience for children,fostering a shared and animated exploration of the artworks. Throughout the day, untill 5:30 p.m.,families can participate in “Totem” and “Silhouette” workshops inspired by Ali Cherri’s exhibition,providing opportunities for creative expression. Interactive “one minute sculptures” by Erwin Wurm will also be available for all to enjoy.

Did You No? The mac’s collection includes a wide range of media,from paintings and sculptures to photographs,films,and installations,reflecting the evolving landscape of contemporary art.

Pro Tip: Check the mac’s website for the moast up-to-date schedule of events and guided tour availability, as times may be subject to change.

Exhibition/Event	Time	Description
“The Watchers” by Ali Cherri	9 a.m. – 6 p.m.	immersive exhibition integrating works from multiple museums.
“They Were Ideal For” by Laure Prouvost	Continuous	Cinematic journey exploring language and identity.
Family Visit	2 p.m.	Guided tour designed for children and families.
Bonneveine Central Park Tour	4 p.m.	Exploration of the park’s sculptures and renovation project.

What aspects of contemporary art most captivate your attention? Do you find interactive installations like those by Erwin wurm notably engaging?

The Growing Importance of contemporary Art Museums

Contemporary Art museums are increasingly playing a vital role in Cultural Tourism.According to a report by the American Alliance of Museums, museums contribute $85.4 billion annually to the U.S. economy, with contemporary art museums attracting a significant portion of visitors (American Alliance of Museums).Thes institutions not only showcase art but also serve as community hubs, fostering dialogue and creativity. The trend of immersive and interactive exhibitions, such as those offered at the mac, is designed to appeal to a broader audience and encourage active participation in the art experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about the mac in Marseille

• What type of art does the mac display? The mac focuses on artistic movements from the 1960s to the present day, including New Realism, Arte Povera, and contemporary installation art.
• Is the “The Watchers” exhibition free? Yes, visits to “The Watchers” exhibition are free of charge.
• Are guided tours available in English? While not explicitly stated, it’s advisable to contact the mac directly to inquire about English-language tour availability.
• what are the family workshops about? The workshops invite families to create art inspired by the “Les Voille” exhibition.
• What is the duration of the Flash Visits? Flash Visits are designed to be brief, lasting approximately 15 minutes.
• Where is the Central Park of Bonneveine located? It is adjacent to the mac Museum of Contemporary Art.
• who is Laure Prouvost? Laure Prouvost is a French artist known for her experimental films and installations.

Share your thoughts on these exciting events! Leave a comment below and let us know which exhibition you’re most looking forward to exploring.

What architectural styles influenced the design of [mac] and how are they showcased during the European Heritage Days?

Marseille’s European Heritage Days: An Immersive Cultural Experience at [mac]

Unveiling Marseille’s Architectural Gems

The European Heritage Days (Journées Européennes du Patrimoine) offer a unique chance to explore the rich history and architectural beauty of cities across Europe.In Marseille, this annual event, held on Saturday, September 8th, 2025, provides free access to sites often closed to the public, with a particular focus this year on the vibrant cultural hub of [mac] – the Musée d’art Contemporain de Marseille. this year’s theme encourages discovery of hidden treasures and a deeper understanding of Marseille’s cultural landscape.

Exploring [mac] During Heritage Days

[mac], located in the heart of Marseille, isn’t just a contemporary art museum; it’s housed within a stunning historical building. The European Heritage days provide a rare chance to appreciate the building’s architecture alongside its modern art collections.

Here’s what visitors can expect at [mac] on September 8th:

Guided Tours: Specialized tours will highlight the building’s history, architectural features, and its evolution over time. These tours will delve into the building’s past life and its transformation into a modern art space.

Exclusive Access: certain areas of [mac] typically off-limits to the public will be open for exploration, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the museum’s operations and hidden architectural details.

Art & Architecture Synergy: Discover how the contemporary art within [mac] interacts with and complements the building’s historical context. Expect curated displays that emphasize this relationship.

Family-Kind Activities: Interactive workshops and activities designed for children will be available, making it a perfect outing for families interested in art and heritage.

Beyond [mac]: Marseille’s Heritage Highlights

While [mac] is a central focus, the European Heritage Days extend far beyond its walls. Marseille boasts a wealth of historical sites, many participating in the event. Consider these nearby attractions:

Le Vieux-Port (The Old Port): marseille’s historic harbor, a bustling centre of activity for centuries. Explore its quays,fish market,and surrounding architecture.

Notre-dame de la Garde Basilica: An iconic landmark overlooking the city, offering panoramic views and stunning Byzantine architecture.

Fort Saint-Jean & Fort Saint-Nicolas: Historical forts guarding the entrance to the Old Port, showcasing military architecture and offering insights into Marseille’s defensive history.

Le Panier District: Marseille’s oldest district, a labyrinth of narrow streets, colorful buildings, and artisan workshops. A prime example of urban heritage and architectural preservation.

Cité Radieuse (Le Corbusier): A modernist architectural masterpiece designed by Le Corbusier, offering guided tours and a glimpse into utopian urban planning. (Note: While not always directly part of the main European Heritage Days program,often offers special access during the weekend).

The Importance of European Heritage Days in Marseille

Marseille, a city with a complex and layered history, deeply values its cultural heritage. The European Heritage Days are crucial for:

Promoting Cultural Awareness: raising awareness about the importance of preserving and celebrating Marseille’s historical and architectural legacy.

Encouraging Tourism: Attracting both local and international visitors interested in exploring the city’s cultural offerings. This boosts the local economy and promotes Marseille as a cultural destination.

Community Engagement: Fostering a sense of community pride and encouraging residents to connect with their city’s past.

Architectural Preservation: Highlighting the need for ongoing preservation efforts to protect Marseille’s historical buildings and monuments. The city of Marseille is actively engaged in logement-urbanisme (housing and urban planning) initiatives, as detailed on the official city website (https://www.marseille.fr/logement-urbanisme), demonstrating a commitment to maintaining its architectural identity.

Practical Tips for Visiting Marseille During Heritage Days

Plan Your Itinerary: With so much to see, prioritize the sites you want to visit and create a realistic itinerary.

check Opening Hours: Confirm the specific opening hours and tour schedules for each site, as they may vary.

Wear cozy Shoes: Marseille is a hilly city,and you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking.

Utilize Public Transportation: Marseille has a good public transportation system, making it easy to get around.

Book Tours in Advance: Popular tours may sell out quickly, so book your tickets online in advance if possible.

Stay Hydrated: Especially during warmer months, remember to drink plenty of water.

Consider a marseille City Pass: If you plan to visit multiple museums and attractions, a City Pass can save you money.

marseille’s Architectural Styles: A Quick Guide

Marseille’s architectural landscape is a fascinating blend of styles, reflecting its diverse history:

Ancient Roman: Remnants of Roman structures can still be found throughout the city.

**Medieval