It is 74BC. The senate orders you to make Massilia the most cultured city in the empire.

For that purpose a handsome sum of money is provided. While you're at it, you are supposed to honour the material requests made of you, as the Rhone valley is a rich and fertile region. The viniculture here seems to be especially renowned across the empire.

Helvetii from the mountains will try to migrate to this area. Luckily the young Julius Caesar beats them at Bibracte in 58BC, but still remnants of the defeated tribe come in this direction so stay vigilant.

Unrest in Gaul adds to your problems as your assistance in sending spare troops to the trouble spots, is required. Play your cards right and an unsurpassed number of triumphal arches will be erected in your city.

Trade wisely, as you will need clay and olives from other cities to achieve high levels of housing. Weapons can only be imported, but inflation seems to be a problem, so don't waste them if you can help it.

There are some native villages around but they seem peacefull enough to encourage trade with them; a well placed mission should do the trick.

Study the map carefully before you build. The obvious spots for key-buildings are not always the best and the terrain could be improved with some minor alterations by your engineers.

Keep the gods happy and prosper!

Starting conditions:
Rank: Proconsul.
Date: 74BC.
Funds: 20000dn.
Rescue loan: 2500dn.