Olympic Torch’s Journey: Marseille to Mont-Blanc en route to Paris

On Wednesday, the Olympic torch will reach Marseille, a major French port, marking its entry into France after an eventful journey. It was ignited on April 16 in Ancient Olympia using sunlight and was then transported around Greece before setting sail for Marseille aboard the historic three-mast ship Belem, dating back to 1896. As it enters the Bay of Marseille, the Belem will be accompanied by a flotilla of over 1,000 boats, culminating its journey at the Vieux-Port where it will dock on a pontoon designed like an athletics track.

In Marseille, the torch will be carried throughout the city, including a dramatic run across the Stade Vélodrome’s roof. Following its time in Marseille, the torch will travel extensively before reaching its final destination in Paris on July 27.

The torch will visit Mont-Saint-Michel on May 31, a stunning historical site in Normandy known for its dramatic architecture and significant history, dating back to the Hundred Years’ War. From here, the torch will embark on an international detour through France’s overseas territories in an event known as the Ocean Relay, traveling across the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans, visiting places like French Guiana, New Caledonia, and several others before returning to mainland France in Nice on June 18.

From the sunny Mediterranean, the torch will journey to the Alpine region of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc by June 23. This area is not only famous for its ski resorts and breathtaking landscapes but also as a renowned producer of distinctive cheeses like Abondance and Beaufort.

After revitalizing in the Alps, the torch will make its way through several more French regions, including a poignant stop in Verdun, known for the devastating WWI battle that occurred there.

As July 14 approaches, the torch will arrive in Paris, coinciding with Bastille Day, France’s national celebration, making a symbolic entrance before briefly leaving and then returning for a final procession through local suburbs and Versailles, leading up to the grand opening ceremony. This ceremony will feature a parade of athletes on the Seine River, concluding with the lighting of the Olympic cauldron at a yet undisclosed, iconic location.

Throughout its journey, approximately 10,000 individuals will relay the torch, safeguarded by local police to ensure a secure passage. Emphasizing sustainability, the torches used are designed to be eco-friendly, utilizing biogas and constructed from recycled steel, reducing the environmental impact compared to previous Olympic torches.