A city that refuses to rest its reputation solely on its vast history and heritage, Marseille continues to nurture a rich cultural life today. As visitors will quickly discover, residents are well known for their warm, welcoming attitude and joie de vivre, and the entire region continues its tradition as a vibrant crossroads between Europe, the Mediterranean, and the East. Marseille boasts a diverse population, with past and recent immigrants arriving from such lands as Italy, Turkey, Spain, Portugal, and North Africa (particularly Algeria). After a number of tumultuous years (mostly a result of unprecedented immigration and unemployment rates), the city has begun to re-emerge as a thriving metropolitan center of southern Europe. The old harbor area is currently undergoing major reconstruction, and municipal plans include a focus on Euro-Mediterranean economic development that will help further secure the city's role as a major international trade center. The city has also established itself as the Euro-Mediterranean capital of the arts. In addition to the grand Opera House and Roland Petit National Ballet Company, Marseille is home to numerous dance, theatre, and music shows; exhibitions; and street fairs. These have all combined to bring Marseille to the forefront of artistic innovation in France.