Sète Maritime city of character
Louis XIV decided to offer a maritime outlet to the Canal du Midi. Thus was born Cette, celebrated by nautical jousts which became associated the city. This port made its wealth thanks to the wine trade. It has since become France's largest fishing port in the Mediterranean.
The spelling of the name evolved over time, eventually becoming Sète, by ministerial decree, in 1928.
The urbanization and architecture of the city testify of the wealth of former times. A particular lease of life has inspired great writers, poets, singers (Paul Valery, Jean Vilar, Georges Brassens ...) as well as painters who exhibit throughout the world.
SOME RECOMMENDATIONS TO DISCOVER SETE:
- Climb to the summit of Mont St Clair (on foot or by car), for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, the coast and the hinterland.
- Stroll while discovering the heritage of Sète, thanks to the fourteen panels that await you on each emblematic site of the city.
- immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the covered markets; meet fishmongers, fishermen and local producers, a real pleasure! (The covered market opens in the morning only, closed on Mondays).
- participate in one of the guided boat trips. The choice of ports, the sea and the rocky coast or the canals, basin de Thau and the oyster and mussel’s parks.
- visit the Georges Brassens area: the musician poet guides you, with headphones, throughout the museum journey.
- discover painting and poetry, in a rather classical version at the Paul Valéry Museum or in a more original way at MIAM, the astonishing International Museum of Modest Arts.
AN ESSENTIAL: an evening at the Théâtre de la Mer
This former fort, reconfigured as a theater at the beginning of the 60's, is an incredible amphitheater in open sky. The greatest international artists have performed for the pleasure of playing with the sea in the background. Magical!
