Strongly desired by Louis XIV in 1666 and built on the ashes of a field and hemp factory, the Canebière, also called the Champs Élysées of Marseille, is the city's main artery, linking the Old Port to the Réformés district. At the time of the Belle Epoque, this elegant city street was overlooked by Marseille's finest department stores and hotels as well as cafes frequented by artists, travelers, and eccentric characters. Today the Canebière remains the city's liveliest and busiest shopping street: cafes, restaurants, cinemas, and grand hotels parade here as a reminder of the good old bohemian days long gone, as well as monuments and fine buildings such as the Opera House, the Music Kiosk, and the Former Stock Exchange Building. It must be said that Marseille's most famous avenue represents a kind of dividing line between rich and poor, Marseillais and immigrants. In fact, next to it is the Belsunce neighborhood, left to neglect despite several renovations: located right in the center of the city, this area represents the beating heart of multiethnic Marseille. If you love diversity, color and popular authenticity this is the place for you.
