Récits des Calanques

From the first traces of human presence to the challenges of protecting the National Park, and including the industrial boom of the 19th century: three specialists retrace the eventful history of the Calanques, shaped by climate change, human activity and the preservation of an exceptional natural heritage.

With • Judith Aziza, historian • Luc Vanrell, underwater archaeologist • and Magali Veyrat, heritage interpretation and sociocultural projects officer at Calanques National Park, PhD in underwater archaeology

• The Calanques, Climate and People, by Luc Vanrell, underwater archaeologist

In the past, people frequented the Calanques in the very places where today we sail and go scuba diving. Cosquer Méditerranée bears witness to the existence of a unique site gradually swallowed by the sea. How have the landscapes of the Calanques and their inhabitants changed over the millennia under the impact of climate variations?

• Marseille and Its Calanques: An Eventful History, 17th to Mid-20th Century, by Judith Aziza, historian

Long frequented by fishermen, Marseille’s calanques were transformed in the 19th century by the construction of factories, ports and housing. Some, such as Sugiton, were nevertheless spared because they were difficult to access. In the 20th century, the decline of industrial activity allowed nature to reclaim its territory, while tourism also began to develop.

• Protecting the Calanques: A Committed Human Story and Balances to Be Found, by Magali Veyrat, heritage interpretation and sociocultural projects officer at Calanques National Park

How did the protection of the Calanques come about? Which of the most ambitious projects were averted so that we can enjoy this natural landmark today? What challenges remain? Through the discovery of many examples, we will retrace this history together, from the first protest in 1910 to the present day, and explore the fragile balances that must be established and preserved for the future.

Free admission, no booking required.