Prehistory
Thousands of years of human settlement
Archaeological remains provide evidence of an ancient human presence in the area of La Ciotat and the surrounding mountains, particularly in caves and rock shelters in the Cap Canaille area.
5th century BC
The Phocaeans
Greek settlers from Massalia (Marseille) settled along the coast. The site became a maritime trading post, integrated into Mediterranean trade networks.
Antiquity
The Roman period
The coastline was the site of significant maritime and agricultural activity. The port of Citharistas served as the maritime gateway to the oppidum of Ceyreste. Roman remains bear witness to this settlement.
7th century
The abandonment of the coast
Invasions and raids drove the coastal populations to seek refuge on the heights of Ceyreste. The coastal village was gradually abandoned.
1303
The return to the coast
Under Charles II, Count of Provence, coastal surveillance was stepped up with the establishment of lookouts. The population gradually returned to the area around the harbour and maritime activity resumed.
1429
The founding of La Ciotat
On 17 March 1429, a charter formalised the separation of La Ciotat from Ceyreste. The new market town grew rapidly thanks to fishing and maritime trade.
15th–16th centuries
The town’s rise
La Ciotat experienced rapid growth. Families, notably from Genoa, settled there and the port came to play a significant role in Mediterranean trade. The town was gradually fortified.
16th century
Ramparts to protect the town
The town is surrounded by a fortified wall that protects the town centre and its harbour. Part of the layout of these ancient fortifications can still be seen in the layout of the historic centre.
1675
The final separation from Ceyreste
After several decades of disputes, the boundaries between the territories of La Ciotat and Ceyreste were definitively established.
Today
From its past as a maritime town, La Ciotat has retained an identity deeply rooted in the sea, fishing, trade and shipbuilding.
