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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Museum of Roman Docks, located 28 Place Vivaux in Marseille, preserves the remains of a Roman commercial warehouse from the 3rd century BC to the 1st century, classified as a historical monument in 1959. Discovered in 1947 during the reconstruction of the Old Port, these docks are among the few examples known in the world, with dolia (great jars) buried in the soil to store wine and oil.

The dolia, up to 1.70 m in height and 1,800 to 2,000 litres in capacity, were manufactured on site and sealed in the event of cracks. Their arrangement in ship holds, such as that of the Petit Congloue, reveals their key role in shipping. The museum also exhibits objects from 20 wrecks, including amphoras, copper ingots and ceramics, illustrating the Mediterranean trade between the 6th century BC and the 4th century.

Opened in 1963 thanks to the intervention of Fernand Benoit, archaeologist, the museum also presents a mosaic of the third century, Roman baths, and medieval remains (walls, wells). Recent excavations, such as those of Place Jules Verne and Villeneuve-Bargemon, have revealed docks, warehouses and thermal baths, enriching the understanding of the ancient harbour topography.

The building, integrated with the buildings of the Reconstruction, is inspired by Roman architecture for its interior lighting. Closed temporarily, the museum showcases unique collections: Massaliot amphores, wrecks like the Grand Congloue II, and instruments of measurement (currency, scales), testimonies of the commercial exchanges that made the reputation of ancient Marseille.

Among the remarkable pieces are dolia 1.60 m in diameter, anchors on Imperial Street (1864), and a locally produced wall. A model reconstructs the Roman shore, while underwater excavations, such as that of the Carry-le-Rouet (stone blocks for Hellenistic ramparts), highlight the central role of the port in Mediterranean networks.

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