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Anybody knowledgeable or any travel guidebook would say Marseille-bound travelers shouldn't miss their traditional fish stew called bouillabaisse.  It is said that it was started by local fishermen who wanted to make a good meal with unsold or less expensive fish and shellfish.  With several different kinds of fresh fish, cooked with some vegetables, herbs, olive oil and saffron, the stew is not only delicious but it has become famous worldwide as the one to be tried in Marseille.

A major port city on the Meditteranean coast, Marseille has been an entry point for immigrants for centuries, making it one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Europe.  I remember someone referred to it as ethnic bouillabaisse.  And I think it says a lot about the city's complicated history.

One time walking in the city I found a shopping street leading to many back alleys, packed with people, that resembled a maze-like marketplace somewhere in North Africa.  Almost everyone there was from a different cultural background.  I painted one of the cafés I saw there.  There were only men sitting on the terrace.  Perhaps they were waiting for their wives to finish shopping.  If so, now that's universal no matter what culture you are from.

Marseille Café, France I

Click here for an enlarged view.

Media: Original watercolor on paper
Image Size: 11.5 x 8.25 inches (29 x 21 cm)
Mat/Frame: No
Purchase: Sold