The recently opened Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM) and the nearby Villa Méditerranée in Marseille not only highlight the city’s role as the 2013 European Capital of Culture. They also position oft-maligned Marseille as a focal point of pan-Mediterranean dialogue, cultural prowess, architectural innovaton and economic entrepreneurship.
Modern MuCEM dominates the Marseille port.
MuCEM opened in June in Marseille, the 2013 European Capital of Culture.
The adjacent Villa Méditerranée.
The main exhibition in the Villa Méditerranée called Beyond the Horizon focuses on travel, mobility and migration on the Mediterranean while one display in the MuCEM is entitled The Gender Bazaar.
The Villa Méditerranée exhibit.
The Gender Bazaar.
But the spacious and soothing design of the inviting MuCEM in the old port goes far beyond the main building and exhibits. Passageways connect it to the Fort Saint Jean where the rooftop is adorned with sculptures, gardens, public areas and restaurants.
MuCEM passageway.
Atop the MuCEM.
View from the MuCEM.
Rooftop garden.
Atop the MuCEM.
View from the MuCEM.
During a recent visit The Idiot demonstrated the innovative interactive nature of The Idiot and the Odyssey II: Myth, Madness and Magic on the Mediterranean and suggested that the book be included in a 2015 exhibit at the Villa Méditerranée dealing with the media and the Mediterranean.
Demonstrating the interactivity of “The Idiot and the Odyssey II” at the Villa Méditerranée.
He even agreed that the book cover may be given a prime display showcase at the MuCEM.
“The Idiot II” cover may replace the female matador.
Photos: Liz Chapin and Joel Stratte-McClure
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