photo credit: blowfishsoup
Lavender fields, olive groves, the sound of crickets chirping…these are all part of the Mediterranean landscape of Provence. The sweet air and rugged countryside have attracted writers, painters and of course holidaymakers to this region for decades. The slow pace, the splendid weather and the warm, open attitude of the people make Provence a favourite destination for travellers.
Avignon
Linked to Paris by a 3.5 hour high-speed train ride, Avignon as a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital. The major attraction here is the Palais des Papes which was the seat of the papal court when it was temporarily moved from Rome to Avignon in the 14th century. The Palais is a massive fully-ramparted structure which boasts ten towers, 15,000 square feet and is equal to the size of four cathedrals. The Palais is unfurnished, but a tour of the great halls gives you a good idea of what religious court life was like in bygone days.
A highly esteemed international theater and dance festival is held in the royal courtyard of the Palais each July: Le Festival d’Avignon. This famous festival draws thousands of fans from around the world. Watching a play or dance performance under the soft Provencal night surrounded by the spectacular Palais is an unforgettable experience.
There are a number of museums to see in Avignon for those who want to learn more about Provence’s roots and history. The Musée Lapidaire (27, rue de la République) is a good place to see regional artifacts dating back to pre-Roman times. Be sure to take a walk out onto the Pont St-Bénézet, the 12th-century bridge which French children sing about in their song “Sur le pont d’Avignon.”
Aix en Provence
A favourite university town for French and foreign students, undoubtedly due to its friendly population and superb climate, Aix en Provence is a charming place whose cours Mirabeau is an excellent people-watching spot with its lovely fountains and pretty cafés. Take a walk through the Vieille Ville, or Old Town, and admire the typical architecture featuring wrought iron, geranium-filled balconies. Aix en Provence’s native son, Paul Cézanne, loved to depict Aix and the surrounding region in his famous paintings; you can visit his studio at 9, avenue Paul Cézanne.
Arles
Considered the most charming of Provençale towns, Arles is a great place to explore this area’s Roman roots. Bullfighting is a popular attraction here and you can attend one in the antique Arena in the summertime. The arena, or amphitheater, is a true Roman relic, dating back to 27 AD and is the most visited site in Arles. Gladiators used to fight there, entertaining crowds of up to 20,000 people.
Van Gogh spent time in Arles, and some of his paintings feature the hospital where he was interned after cutting off his ear in 1889. No longer a hospital, this has become the Espace Van Gogh and you can visit this cultural center and learn about the artist’s life and work.