Dimanche

            

              On Sunday morning we did a quick tour of the mountainous area surrounding Marseille thanks to our car`s GPS. There are some quaint villages and an amazing resort town called Cassis all within 20km of the city. We will have to make a point of going back and exploring some of these further. This trip was just to get our bearings and decide if perhaps living in the country might be a better idea than the city. The definite answer on that has been no.  Marseille unlike many of the smaller villages surrounding it has lovely views it seems from everywhere you are. The sight of the mountains or the sea make it feel like it is really not that big of a city. There is so much life and so many places to explore here that we feel drawn to the city, where we can meander about on foot and take in new things everyday at a leisurely pace.
                Our explorations on Sunday led us to Notre-Dame de la Garde. This church is situated up on the pinnacle of a hill and it really is quite a hike to get up to it.  It is a landmark for the city and as you walk around the church you can see every area of Marseille. Although a bit hazy, the view of the harbour was magnificent. Complete with its fleet of tankers waiting for the strike to end so that they can gas up, the view is astounding. We went to mass inside the church which has gold mosaics all over the ceilings and also mobiles of model ships hanging from the rafters. This church is visible from the harbour and marble plaques cover the walls both inside and out thanking Our Lady for guiding sailors to safety and for protecting children or those who have gone to war. The mass itself was a bit difficult to understand, and decided that we desperately need a missal! We were able to comprehend that the mass also included a bunch of songs and intercessions to Mary which we think are particular to this church. Regardless of our limited understanding, the afternoon has continued to connect us to Marseille, and at the same time provide some picturesque geography lessons.