Aix-en-Provence, France

Located in the southeastern corner of France, just a short train ride from Marseille, is the gorgeous city of Aix-en-Provence. It is the largest city in Provence, and was once the capital of the region. Affectionately known simply as Aix, the city has an extensive history dating back to 123BC when it was founded by the Romans as a spa town. Click here to learn more about the city’s history.

Cours Mirabeau, the famous, tree lined boulevard is the heart of the city. Lined with shops, businesses, fountains and restaurants, it is also the location of the city’s twice weekly street markets. It is here that the city wall once stood that now divides the city’s old and new towns. It was named after the French Revolutionist, Mirabeau, who was born here.

Aix is sometimes referred to as The City of a Thousand Fountains.

The famous artist, Paul Cézanne was born here and there is a Cézanne walk starting at Foutaine de la Rotonde that will take you to many important points of interest throughout the city. Just follow these markers.

We enjoyed a week here in May and saw some of the city’s offerings including museums, cathedrals, the Cezanne walk and bien sur, the restaurants.

One of the neighborhoods we visited was the Mazarin Quartier with the Place des Quartre-Dauphins at the center. Here you’ll find the famous baroque fountain built in 1667 by Jean-Claude Rambot.

This neighborhood was established in the 17th century and included many luxury homes. It is named after Michel Mazarin, the famous cardinal’s brother. One of those homes has been converted into Caumont Centre d’Art.

This museum has a nice variety of art including posters by Henri Toulouse-Lautrec, furnishings from the time of Pauline, the marquise de Caumont, gardens and a restaurant.

It was a lovely place to linger and enjoy the art, gardens and restaurant.

I have more to share about Aix in the coming weeks. Have you been to Aix-en-Provence? Even if you haven’t, I’d love to hear from you.

Wishing you grand adventures,

Tricia