Provence, a picturesque corner of France. Provence - interesting facts. Holidays in Provence

What is Provence? This is a corner of France with a rich history and picturesque nature. In the 17th century, it became fashionable among the bourgeoisie to build houses in the provinces.

Life in the bosom of nature made it possible to move away from the clear canons of the classics and strict conventions. Beautiful natural landscapes inspired the simple design of houses, but with a characteristic French charm. Provence is currently one of the most popular tourist spots where travelers from all over the world flock.

Geographic location

Located in several natural and climatic zones in France, Provence is bounded on the east by the Alps, on the west it is washed by the Rhone River, and on the south side is the beautiful and warm Cote d'Azur, famous for its resorts and wonderful nature. The center of the Provence region is the colorful city of Marseille, which has ancient origins and beautiful architecture.

History of Provence

With a rich history, Provence has been inhabited for half a million years BC. Archaeologists have found confirmation that these settlements were among the oldest found on Earth. From the 6th century BC, this area, inhabited by the Ligurians, received a new development. Greek sailors, as a result of negotiations with local tribes, were able to establish port cities on the sea coast:

• Massalia (currently Marseille);
• Nicaea (Nice).

The Greeks not only built cities, but also began to farm, planting olive trees and planting vineyards. The territory became known as the Massaliot Empire. But already in the II century AD. Rome, under the plausible pretext of helping in the fight against warring tribes, brought in its soldiers. The Romans began to call the region "province", which gave the name to Provence.

During this period of Roman rule, infrastructure developed, new cities and roads were built. The fall of the Roman Empire also affected Provence. The region that lost its patronage became subject to capture and plunder by various neighboring tribes.

In 732, the hordes of the Moors were detained by K. Martel. But the troubled times of wars and plunder continued for centuries. In addition to the incessant captures by various noble dynasties, the region was very often robbed by pirates, and a plague overtook, causing damage no less than wars.

Since the 16th century, this territory has been part of France. Despite the then claims of Italy. The region finally gained a foothold in France only in the 19th century, when fashionable resorts for the rest of the aristocracy from all over the world began to appear on the Cote d'Azur.

Second World War contributed to the Italian occupation of the territory of Provence. But at the end of the war, the Allied army regained control of the territory, driving out the Italian troops.

Famous cities of Provence and sights

The rich historical heritage makes Provence France interesting not only for the beaches and the style that designers embody in the interiors of country houses and apartments around the world. The south of France is the center of historical monuments, examples of architecture and colorful paintings of various eras.

Arles

Mentioned as far back as BC, the city of Arles is a major cultural and historical center of the region. Attracting creative people, Arles is famous for its art.

Ancient Arelat is one of the most famous historical monuments of Arles. This ancient city with a well-preserved amphitheater, large Roman baths and part of the city fortifications. And the ruins imperial palace today they stretch for as much as 300 meters.

Another attraction is the Aliskan necropolis. City museums, the embankment on which Van Gogh painted his paintings, as well as local bullfights, attract travelers from all over the world.

Avignon

being cultural and religious center France, Avignon is located in beautiful place where the Durance and Rhone rivers merge. The city center is so flooded with historical architectural monuments that it is included in the register of the historical heritage protected by the state.

The fortress walls of Avignon were erected in the XIV century and were intended to protect the popes, nine of which were located here. The Grand Palais des Papes is one of the most attractive tourist spots, offering visitors the beauty of the Tower of the Angels, the Treasury and ancient gardens.

The suburbs of Aviyon are the mansions of cardinals, immersed in luxury, rich villas and ancient ruins.

Aix-en-Provence

Conservative and aristocratic, Aix-en-Provence was considered the capital of the province until the 12th century. Famous not only for historical sights, the city is rich in markets with souvenirs that are unique to this region. These are, for example, anise liqueur and lavender oil. Lavender itself, as a symbol of Provence, is often depicted in paintings, textiles and ceramics.

Fountains, statues and medieval buildings surround tourists in this ancient town, where even the town hall itself is a historical monument.

Camargue

One of the most famous reserves in France, the Camargue, spreads out on a majestic plateau, framed by the Rhone River and the sea coast. Tourists visiting this place have the opportunity to enjoy the wonderful scenery and the population of pink flamingos that stop at the lakes during the annual migrations.

Camargue white horses and black bulls, along with flamingos, are calling card reserve. The bullfight with black bulls, which has survived to this day in Provence, is a spectacular performance in which animals are not allowed to kill them.

Luberon massif

The picturesque mountain range extends for several tens of kilometers, separated by the Ezhburn River. highest point- Moon Negre. Here is the national natural Park, on the territory of which there are small beautiful towns, immersed in the greenery of trees and flowers.

Bicycle, horse and foot tourist routes built in such a way that visitors can fully experience the beauty of the surrounding nature and spectacular views.

The largest canyon in Europe

The wonders of Provence are multifaceted and endless. One of these unique places is the Verdon Gorge, located between the cities of Nice and Avignon. A tourist road has been laid along this deep canyon.

Provence cuisine

Special attention should be paid to Provencal cuisine. Famous for growing spices, the region has a delicious hearty cuisine. Olive oil is also locally produced. Among the dishes of Provencal cuisine, there are a lot of vegetable and mushroom products grown locally.

Lavender fields

Since mid-June, Provence has been visited by those who want to admire the endless fields of lavender. The harvested plants are subsequently processed into an essential oil, which is used to make soap and cosmetics. It is Provence that holds the championship in terms of the volume of grown lavender. At the same time, a relatively small area gives the world about 80% of lavender raw materials. Answering the question of what Provence is, we can confidently say that these are endless lavender fields, vineyards, warm sun and original culture, which has absorbed centuries-old traditions.

Features of the Provencal style

The Provence style was sung by artists and poets, drawing inspiration from nature itself: warm sea, lavender fields, vineyards and lush orchards. The atmosphere of comfort created by Provence is conducive to relaxation, reflection, unhurried life away from the hustle and bustle of cities.

When decorating an apartment or a country house in the France Provence style, special attention is paid to materials and shades.

The characteristic features of the style are:

• natural materials in the design;
• calm natural colors;
• a large amount of textiles;
• an abundance of flowers;
• old age;
• decor accessories.

Color palette and prints

Thinking through the interior in the Provence style, one should build on the warm natural colors characteristic of the Cote d'Azur. In shades of furniture, finishing materials and accessories prevail:

• white;
• milky and beige;
• brown;
• delicate shades of pink, yellow, mint and blue;
• lavender;
• gray, etc.

Dominant pastel shades can be diluted with terracotta or blue accents.

Solid surfaces in Provence are combined with patterns:

• strip;
• cell;
• floral motifs;
• prints that look like prints from old postal envelopes.

Materials and textures

Finishing materials include:

• a natural stone;
• tree;
• forging;
• natural linen and cotton;
• ceramics.

Interior decoration in Provence can have a somewhat rough look, which is designed to emphasize the natural textures of materials. This applies to textured plaster on the walls, and to the use of wooden ceiling beams. Wooden cladding is often complemented by emerging fragments wild stone or bricks on the walls. In this case, the surfaces can be painted white and artificially aged.

The flooring is tile or wood in warm light shades.

Cote d'Azur furniture

The style of the room is set by suitable furniture, which in Provence is interesting and beautiful with its authenticity. Furniture can be:

• forged;
• wooden;
• wicker.

Light colors for furniture are organically combined with the effect of aging - worn and slightly peeling paint, aged monograms. In this case, the texture of the wood and the dark metal of the forged elements show through most effectively. Furniture can include:

• cabinets;
• buffets;
• tables with chairs;
• bedside tables and chests of drawers, etc.

Upholstered furniture - comfortable and solid enough, should have natural upholstery in colors typical of the style, complemented by covers and decorative pillows.

All the charm of naturalness and European elegance is reflected in the French Provence style. A land that combines ancient historical monuments and ancient traditions, unites the centuries-old heritage of cultures. Beautiful landscapes, original cuisine with good wine and warm climate leave no one indifferent. Reproduction of the free way of provincial life of past centuries in the interior of your home is a guarantee of a natural and truly spiritual atmosphere for true romantics.

Answer: style Provence(from French, means province) - called the rural style of France in the 19th century. It got its name from the French village, which was located in the southeast of the country. The provincial style is often referred to as country in the French manner. This style conveys the spirit of France - contrasting in the south and north, and uniting the desire for lightness, simplicity.

What characterizes the style of Provence.
Provence is a region located in the south of France. It has stunning landscapes, the cuisine is famous for the use of fragrant spices, delicious coffee, deep blue sea, joyful shining sun. Of these components, the style of the interior called Provence consists. Its tones muted by the sun, with inclusions of rich colors create cozy atmosphere and uplift the mood.
Provence can be called one of the natural, and uniform styles. Such an interior looks great in his native country, and, moreover, without breaking away from the national color. The Provence style is based on barely worn surfaces, antique furniture, and walls deliberately plastered, tarnished textiles. The interior is discreet, seemingly poor. It has no fancy details. It is enough to identify a few iconic elements of the interior, like a wicker chair, a forged candlestick, standing against a rich wall background, and the desired effect will be achieved. Provencal style looks organically in country interior because it needs space. The walls are usually roughly plastered.

The main elements of the Provencal style.
The Provence-style interior is beautiful, discreet, reminiscent of antiquity. It has a light color scheme. For the color scheme of the walls, white, light yellow shades are chosen, and in some places the masonry of brick, stone, acts as a decorating element. Wooden beams are installed under the ceiling. Furniture items for Provence are made of wood. It can be forged, devoid of refinement, deliberately aged. Forged decorative elements, as well as woolen carpets, armchairs, sofas with linen covers, and a fireplace are a characteristic element of the style.

How did the style of Provence.
This style appeared in the 19th century in one of the provinces of France, a picturesque corner on the coast mediterranean sea.
Provence fell in love with artists and poets. This area was more than once a theme for the works of art by Matisse and Picasso. And Provence had a great influence on the works of the famous Paul Cezanne, only here he had a special creative style. Van Gogh had a special love for Provence. His famous lines: "Nature here is such that you begin to feel what Color is."
The formation of Provence as a style fell on the 15th-17th century. At that time, France was very contrasting, as in southern corners, and northern. But all regions had a single feature - this is the chanting of lightness, weightlessness in everything. She became special for the Provence style in interior design.
Ease denoted the various achievements of France, it influenced art, music, and then moved to Provence interior design.

The main features of the Provence style.
Provence is the embodiment of a dream of a magical land where the sun shines brightly, the waves of the Mediterranean Sea carelessly splash, and small neat houses, bogged down in ivy and vines, beckon with their beauty.
The simple way of rural life and the contrasting colors of nature became the ideal basis for creating an interior in the Provence style. This is the use of stained, painted, and wooden furniture, aged chests of drawers, and peeling cabinets, carved beds, with patina or cabinets with massive wrought iron handles.
The Provence style is characterized by ceramic dishes with thick walls. From textiles - beige, pale milk, light blue towels, tablecloths, burnt-out curtains, paths that were laid on an ordinary wooden floor. The interior creates a feeling of simplicity and convenience.
Provence is characterized by naturalness, adherence to ancient traditions.
The interior in Provencal style denotes the finishes, pieces of furniture and selected colors. It is characterized by a delicate pastel color scheme, in which there are juicy cheerful accents, as well as rough plaster walls, and exposure of masonry in certain places.
Pastel shades for Provence are ideal for creating an interior. Paintings, tapestries, and upholstery textiles contrast on light walls. It can be both burnt and pastel shades, as well as milky, white, lavender, and color. sea ​​wave, yellow (associated with sunflower), terracotta, ocher color. Typical color combinations in the Provence style are a tandem of pale blue and pastel yellow, which symbolize the beauty of the flowering meadows of the French province.
Typical pieces of furniture for the Provence style are simple chairs, tables, armchairs, in which there is no frills. They can be both wooden and forged. Its advantage lies in the fact that it is exclusive, that is, specially ordered.
Furniture in the Provence style should be old, or with the effect of antiquity, as a rule, painted. Their main effect is to look like they've been worn down by time and have lasted for generations. Such furniture can be chairs with carved, but old legs, milk-colored chests of drawers, as well as cabinets for household utensils.
For the main material of furniture in the Provence style, the fronts of white flowers made of oak, walnut, chestnut are ideal. But a prerequisite is an aged look of the fronts. To give the interior a Provencal charm, authenticity, wooden surfaces are deliberately aged, imitating chips, blackening. The floor is equipped with unhewn boards, tiles. The wooden surfaces of ordinary cabinets, chests of drawers in the Provencal style are treated with wax, or painted in green, blue, and even terracotta shades, while bright accents are formed on the light background of the walls.

A wrought iron chandelier is ideal as a lighting fixture for the Provence style. It can perfectly harmonize with the "forged" fittings that decorate the furniture.
Forged details are considered a typical feature of the Provencal style. Plant themes are widely used to decorate the room, and it does not matter where it is located in paintings, bedspreads, or curtain textiles.
The main fabrics for the Provence style are linen, cotton with a floral or striped print.
The most important drawing of the Provencal style is flowers. They can be different, both large and small. Flowers look beautiful on chintz curtains, and a regular quilted bedspread. In addition, a cell is typical of the Provencal style. It can be white and red, white and blue. Chairs are decorated with linen covers. Ordinary homemade woolen carpets of striped colors are placed on the floor. It is relevant to decorate the interior with ceramics, linen napkins.
Provence style in a residential interior is the use of natural wood, natural stone. This is a soft metallic sheen, and the unevenness of terracotta.
To make the Provencal style look more expressive, they use a characteristic texture. For example, part of the walls can be decorated with brickwork, or natural stone, a material that imitates it. In such an interior, mosaic looks beautiful, ordinary brick, which is covered with colored glaze, as well as painted ceramic tiles.
Typical Provencal style walls have an accentuated rough texture. Rough plaster fits perfectly here, and wallpaper with relief.
For the arrangement of the floor, ceramic tiles that imitate wood are used, porcelain stoneware that imitates natural stone, or wooden boards is suitable. The signature style of the Provencal style is black or dark wooden beams. They are placed on the ceiling. Their imitation is allowed.
Provencal style is harmonious for a country house. An important attribute is a fireplace with a stone or wooden facade, time-beaten beams for the ceiling, rough plaster, with stone or brick masonry protruding in some places. Wooden shelves in such an interior are built into niches. All elements of the interior look aged.
A typical Provence-style courtyard is decorated with trees: cypresses, green walls that are wrapped in vines, ivy, pots of lavender, sometimes heather. Chairs and tables are made of wood.
In modern interior design, Provencal style is welcome. It is used in kitchens, children's rooms, dining rooms.
A Provencal-style room does not have to have a high ceiling, as well as large windows. The spirit of a cozy French province fits perfectly into standard apartments.

Summary:
Provence style is concise. To decorate the interior in this style, it is not necessary to have large funds, in addition, it is diverse and charming.
Interior in Provence style creates a comfortable, warm atmosphere. It can be customized to your liking - modestly or expensively.

provence(fr. provence, provencal. Provenca, lit. "province") - a historical region in the south-east of France, now part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Currently, Provence includes the departments of Var, Vaucluse and Bouches-du-Rhone, as well as parts of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Alpes-Maritimes.

In the east, the region is bounded by the Alps, in the west by the Rhone, in the south by the Mediterranean Sea. The generous climate of Provence and its fertile lands give a surprisingly rich harvest of fragrant plants that have unique properties. The climate is generally Mediterranean (hot and dry), moderated by terrain features and sea breezes.

The capital of Provence is Marseille, one of the oldest French cities. It was founded by the Greeks around 600 BC. Today it is the largest port in France and the largest industrial center.

In ancient times, settlements of the Phoenicians and Greeks existed on the territory of present-day Provence, then, in the 2nd century BC, the Romans settled here. As a result, Provence became one of the most Romanized provinces of Gaul. Christianity spread here in the 3rd century. After the decline of the Roman Empire, the province was overwhelmed by the invasions of the German barbarians - the Visigoths and the Franks. In the VIII century, the invasion of the Arabs followed.

In the years 855-863 there was a kingdom of Provence (king - Charles of Provence), which included, in addition to Provence itself, also most of Burgundy.

From 1032 to 1246, Provence was part of the Holy Roman Empire, then it became part of the French kingdom. Besides French, in Provence they speak a special Occitan (Provençal) language.

Provence - wine region France, perhaps the oldest in the country. The area of ​​vineyards is about 24 thousand hectares. The isolation and remoteness of the region from Paris moved Provence away from the elite of winemaking for a long time. Only the development of tourism and the revival of a serious attitude to wine at the end of the 20th century. brought this region out of oblivion.

The varietal composition of the cultivated grapes (Carignan, Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre) unites Provence with Southern Rhone and Languedoc, but over the past 20 years, winemakers in the region have managed to give their wines a distinct terroir character. Today there are wines not only "for tourists", but also for the most demanding connoisseurs - from light and fragrant roses to full-bodied reds and expressive whites. Their aroma is rich with shades of sun-scorched herbs, heated stones and resinous pines soaked in sea iodine.

Provence produces almost the same amount of rosé and red wines (together more than 1 million hl); whites are made much less - about 45 thousand ch. Regional wines go under AOC Cötes de Provence; wines are listed slightly higher AOC Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provance(d'Aix-en-Provence) and Baux de Provence (Beau de Provence), which have also shown significant progress in recent years. The best wines of the region come from the Bandol region. Red bandoli have tannin power and aromatic brightness, they reach full development by the age of 10. By law, Bandol wines must contain at least 50% Mourvèdre, but many of the the best manufacturers only this variety is used, since it is it that gives the wine excellent minerality.

Provence is diverse: the endless vineyards of Gigonde, the silvery hills of the olive groves of Nyon, the lavender valleys stretching from Valréa to Vaison-la-Romaine. Huge cliffs in Les Baux, cypresses and cedars under the scorching azure skies of Arles - all this makes Provence a unique place to relax.

Mount Mont Ventoux (Mont Ventoux)- one of the most beautiful scenery Provence. At its foot is one of the largest natural springs in the world (fifth largest) - Fontaine de Vaucluse (Fontaine de Vaucluse). Provencal roads are very picturesque - the roads through the Luberon massif and the journey to Arles, Saint-Remy and Avignon are especially noteworthy.

A lover of antiquity has to make a difficult choice between the numerous sights of the region: it is almost impossible to visit everything even in a month. 2000-year-old Roman amphitheater in Arles, the medieval monastery of Saint-Trophime, the castle of Maison Carré in Nimes, preserved from the time of Emperor Augustus, the ruins of the 6th century BC. near Saint-Remy-de-Provence, the papal palace in Avignon… Avignon is the most romantic city Provence, the quintessence of the south of France. The massive papal palace, the fortress walls of the 14th century, the Rocher-de-Dome gardens overlooking the Rhone, the Avignon bridge Saint-Brezenet, sung by poets, are the main attractions of the city.

From Avignon you can drive to Orange. The road there passes through endless lavender fields, embraces the desire to plunge into this intoxicating smell of blooming lavender. In Orange there is a triumphal arch built in honor of the victories of Julius Caesar, a theater of the Augustan era, which has been perfectly preserved from those ancient times, and is considered the best monument of the Augustan era in the world. Nearby, in Saint-Remy-de-Provence, there is also a Roman mausoleum, another triumphal arch.

Driving along the famous Provencal triangle - from Beaucaire and Tarascon to Arles, you can look at the Roman amphitheater located in the center of Arles, which was built in 46 BC. Not far from the Church of St. Trofim is the coronation site of Frederick Barbarossa. here you can walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh and look at landscapes that have changed little since the time of his paintings (cedars near the ruins).

In Marseille, the tourist is impressed by the panoramic view of the bay from the mountain, where the Church of the Virgin of Marseille is located. (Vierge-la-Garde), the island from the legendary Dumas novel with the Château de Yves, boat trips along the coast with the famous cliffs, which the French call "calanque". Restaurants serve signature fish soup bouillabaisse (bouillabaisse).

In Provence is the Côte d'Azur (fr. Côte d'Azur) - the southeastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea east of the city of Toulon, to the border with Italy. The Principality of Monaco is also located on the Cote d'Azur. Another name is the French Riviera.

In addition to the noted attractive sides of Provence, there is another one - a large number of cultural events and festivals, especially in summer time. Opera, music and jazz, dance and theater festivals take place almost everywhere - from a small village lost in the Alps to such a cultural giant as Aix-en-Provence.

Provence is a mosaic. Iridescent light composition of all colors and shades: sky blue and piercingly bright blue south sea; hot, almost white rays of the subtropical sun and warm pastel tones of local stone from which ancient buildings are built; bright green of young grapes and deep purple lavender fields.

Provence is a puzzle. It is woven from so many contradictory fragments that it is very difficult to understand how Roman theaters and Christian churches, the eternal noise of the Cote d'Azur and the eternal calm of the most beautiful villages of the Luberon, the scorching summer heat and the winter mistral piercing to the bones are linked into a single dense whole.

Provence is a mystery. It is often called the least French region, and there is a grain of truth in this: over the past three millennia, many peoples considered Provence theirs, but Provence outlived the next owners with calm dignity - and always remained itself. Others believe that Provence is the most that neither is France, its essence and symbol. And they are right too: the endless lavender fields, the Croisette and the beaches of Nice have long become the "trademarks" of the country - no less recognizable than the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower.

Some interesting facts

• Of all the regions of France, Provence has the greatest climatic diversity: from the subtropical zones of the Camargue and the Cote d'Azur to the harsh climate of the Alpine foothills.
• Provence is home to the largest and deepest canyon in Europe. From the peaks of the Verdon Gorge to its bottom is more than 700 m!
• In the Provencal town of Menerbes there is a Corkscrew Museum with more than 1200 exhibits. It is curious that even the Louvre has competitors, but this museum does not - it is the only one in the world.
• Provence is the birthplace of French bullfighting. Its main difference from the Spanish one is that here the bulls are not only not killed - they are not even injured (only the bullfighter risks his life and health).
• Provence and only Provence is the birthplace of troubadours. Therefore, the troubadour from the popular cartoon The Bremen Town Musicians is actually not a troubadour, but a German minnesinger.
• The province of Provence is "butter oil". During the Empire, the Romans were so accustomed to claiming Provence as theirs that they called it provincia nostra ("our province") or simply provincia - hence the modern name.

Although Provence was Roman for half a millennium and thoroughly romanized, the Gauls still retained one cultural feature: it was not for nothing that the Romans sarcastically called it Gallia bracata (“Gallia of pants”) - because of the stubbornness of local residents who did not want to wear Roman togas.

How to get there

The easiest and fastest way is a direct flight to Nice. Unfortunately, due to high airport taxes such a ticket, as a rule, will cost more expensive than a ticket to Paris (also very expensive). The second most popular route is from Paris by TGV train. The combination of a plane to Paris plus a train can be cheaper than flying to Nice if you book a train ticket in advance - online sales on the SNCF website start three months before the expected date of travel.

Traveling to Provence from Paris in a rental car makes sense only if you are not limited in time and are ready to move along narrow local roads - otherwise the cost of the A7 toll highway will “eat up” all the estimated savings. The same advice applies to traveling in your own car.

Shopping and stores

The main highlight of Provence is not in outlets and boutiques of expensive brands (they are on the Cote d'Azur, but differ little from Paris ones), but in small fairs and farmers markets which are held in almost every town on a weekly basis. It is there that you should buy sachets (sachets with natural lavender perfume), real olive oil, Provencal fabrics with original patterns and bright local ceramics.

Cuisine and restaurants

In addition to the widely publicized bouillabaisse, Provencal cuisine has something to lure even an experienced gourmet: these are, first of all, the famous Cavaillon melons (they are easy to distinguish from ordinary ones by their bright green stripes); grilled octopus with tomatoes and aioli sauce (this sauce also comes from Provence); the best nougat in France, and even in the world (if this delicacy is made by hand, it contains local honey, and sugar is added to the factory one); lamb stewed in olive oil with local spices.

While the local rosé is heavily marketed, it's easy to find better wines in France - but the local "pastis" is really worth a try! It is customary to dilute this strong anise tincture with water to a light pearl color: in this concentration it has a slight creamy aftertaste and does not intoxicate, but warms and uplifts.

Popular hotels in Provence

Entertainment and attractions of Provence

Significant events for Provence are the February feast of lemons and the July theater festival. During the first, the small seaside town of Menton becomes a desirable destination for half a million tourists, and this is not surprising: it’s not every day that you get to see hundreds of sculptures built from lemons and taste the dishes local cuisine, prepared from them! The theater festival in Avignon completes the half-year begun by the Menton festivities. For several weeks, the provincial town attracts the attention of not only France, but the whole world, which is not surprising - this festival has long received international status. A characteristic and very charming feature of this festival is democracy. Unlike stiff Nice, everyone can try themselves as an actor, and the narrow medieval streets turn into impromptu theater stages for a while.

If you are not thrilled with the hustle and bustle of people, Provence is ready to offer you the age-old tranquility of Gordes, Menerbes and Roussillon, members of the association "Most beautiful villages France"; the finely preserved Roman-era monuments at Orange and Arles; masterpieces of the Middle Ages - the palace of the Avignon popes and the castle of King René the Good in Tarascon; unique nature the Camargue Nature Reserve, which is under the protection of UNESCO; silence and spaciousness of lavender fields blooming from June to September, vineyards and olive groves ... Thirty centuries of history have not been in vain for Provence, he knows how to fall in love with anyone - and he will pick up the key to anyone.

Provence is an interior design style that is well suited for both country houses and small apartments with a standard layout. It originated in France, in the town of Provence. The everyday customs of its inhabitants, the way of their daily life, the spirit and color of the local nature are reflected in the canons of interior design.

The main features of the style:

• finishing with natural materials: metal, wood, stone;
• the color palette of the style - as if burnt out from long exposure to the sun, light pastel colors;
• small floral ornaments;
• good illumination due to large windows and local sources of artificial light;
• vintage, aged or restored furniture of elegant forms;
• decoration with the help of manual labor: artistic painting, woodcarving, weaving, knitting and sewing;
• an abundance of live and dry bouquets, indoor plants;
• light, translucent;
• textile decorations - ruffles, richelieu, lace;
• mandatory presence of forged elements. At the same time, forging is allowed only in French openwork, thin and elegant;
• clay, ceramic or porcelain decor details;
• open racks and shelves with accessories placed on them;
• slight negligence in the arrangement of furniture.

Zoning

Living quarters in Provence may or may not be divided into rooms. The layout of each room is based on the principle of freedom of space in the center and its fullness at the edges. If separation occurs, it is desirable that the rooms are not too large. If it is not there, then the zoning of a large space into functional areas is carried out with the help of finishing materials, furniture, large potted plants or curtains.

Walls

Usually the walls are covered with paint or plaster, which do not hide their natural defects: irregularities and roughness. Partially or completely, the walls can be decorated with brickwork or natural stone laying, friezes and stucco. On a light wall background, any decor items look good. A vaulted wooden ceiling or exposed beams against a whitewashed background will perfectly emphasize the style. A simpler solution is painting in one of the traditional Provence colors.

floors

Plank wood floors showing signs of wear should be bleached or painted a lighter shade. Laying tiles or parquet will not break the style either.

Windows and doors

Doors and window frames are wooden, aged in appearance, painted in one of the shades of white or retained their natural color. It is desirable that the fittings be made of wrought iron. The wider the window openings, the better, even the option of panoramic glazing is possible - from ceiling to floor. Floral painting on the inner door surface will add originality and romance to the interior, and a glass insert will allow light rays to penetrate through it.

Furniture

Despite a touch of wear and tear, furniture in Provence looks much lighter and more elegant than in others. Whitewashed or pastel-colored wooden furniture with wrought iron elements, high arched legs, carvings and monograms - each piece of furniture is selected to solve not only functional, but also decorative tasks.

In the interior of the French province there are always low pot-bellied sideboards, painted chests of drawers, cabinets and mezzanines. Small dressing tables are placed throughout the house and decorated with ceramic plant pots.

Rooms can be furnished with self-restored antiques or purchased antiques. In addition, on sale you can find collections of brand new stylized furniture with artificially applied elements of aging.

To create a light summer mood, the Provence style involves the use of wicker rattan furniture, in particular, rocking chairs.

The colors of Provence are pastel, soft. No annoying screaming splashes are allowed. Warm shades of white set the background against which sandy yellow, brown, green, blue, pink accents are placed. Whitened pale blue, lemon, olive, lavender colors are also used.

Textile

Textiles play one of the leading roles in creating an interior in the Provence style. The most important criterion for choosing a fabric is its naturalness. The most commonly used here are cotton, linen, wool, muslin, chintz. The ornament and color of all textiles in the room must be identical. Most often, this is a small floral or floral pattern. Less common are geometric patterns: a cage and a strip. Hand embroidery, knitting and handmade rugs will make any interior sentimental.

Traditionally, windows in Provence overlook the garden. To enjoy the view of fresh greenery and flowers, the curtains are made transparent and light or removed altogether.

Lighting

Also, one of the most important conditions for the Provence style is a sufficient supply of natural light. The houses of the inhabitants of the French province of the same name are flooded with the sun most of the time, which causes blurry, faded colors of the interior. At night, lighting should also be well organized. Its direct participants are a massive central chandelier with crystal pendants on a metal frame or in the form of several candlesticks, decorated tabletops and stylized kerosene lamps.

Decor

Large round mechanical clocks with Roman numerals, mirrors, rectangular or round mirrors, landscape paintings, engravings, photos or just empty wooden frames, suitcases, boxes, vases, fruit bowls, candlesticks, vases, bird cages, beautiful painted porcelain dishes and figurines , decorative plates on the walls - it is these little things that make Provence Provence. Handicraft items emphasize the rustic charm of the interior, and even a wagon wheel can serve as a stylish interior decoration.

The symbol of Provence is lavender and lavender color. The inhabitants of this French province constantly decorate their homes with flowers: fresh and dried, meadow and domestic, arranging them in vases and pots of white and blue shades or hanging them around the room in flowerpots. For decorating with flowers, the most unexpected items are sometimes used, for example, a rubber boot, a teapot, a bucket or a box that has served its time. Sometimes the herbarium is simply hung on the wall.

Another recognizable attribute of Provence is the rooster, the symbol of France. Especially often his figurines and images are found in the kitchen or in the dining room.

Provence style bedroom

The decoration of the rest room warms and soothes with warm, delicate shades. The unobtrusive floral ornament on the wallpaper looks great. In this case, a combination of finishes is allowed, for example, one of the walls is crumbled, upholstered with wood or decorated with paintings. The ceiling is traditionally flat and white.

The main attention in the bedroom is given to the bed, which is its compositional center. Wooden models of natural light colors or warm shades of white, decorated with carvings, harmoniously fit into the interior of the French hinterland. A vintage forged model with simple, smoothly curved outlines will also be a good choice. The rug next to the bed warms bare legs.

A light canopy that creates a feeling of airiness and hand-embroidered lace bedding perfectly convey the romanticism of Provence.

In addition to the bed, furniture in the Provencal bedroom usually contains wooden or wrought iron armchairs and chairs woven from rattan, banquettes, bedside tables with thin legs, antique dressing tables, chest of drawers or wardrobe.

Decorative pillows, rugs, bedspreads, and other various textiles soften the interior and bring comfort, which is so necessary in this room. The upholstery of upholstered furniture is stuffed, made of natural coarse fabric or cashmere.

Curtains with all kinds of frills, flounces and ruffles protect against sunlight and decorate the window. Color palette curtains, wallpaper, furniture upholstery, linen and other decorative elements must be completely or partially identical.

The main chandelier is usually installed in the center of the ceiling, with glass shades on forged holders or a dense fabric lampshade with a fringe. Quieter light, suitable for night reading, is provided by curly table lamps on bedside tables, sconces or floor lamps.

Often found in the French bedroom. A natural or artificial hearth will undoubtedly add comfort, help relieve stress and distract from disturbing thoughts.

Cute little things like flower vases or animal figurines bring the room to life. Wood-framed prints of rural scenery or flowers are appropriate wall decorations. Mirrors in an elegant frame help to create a special intimate atmosphere.

Provence style bathroom

Tiles are commonly used in bathroom cladding. The color palette includes gentle tones of blue, pink, sand. For finishing the floor, darker terracotta and brown shades are acceptable. Forged metal parts, which Provence abounds in, are painted in gilded, silver, mother-of-pearl colors. For walls, it is recommended to choose options with patterns that match the style, and for the floor, a texture that imitates natural wood is well suited. From bright elements of tiles or mosaics, you can fold a kind of rug in front of the bathroom, in the center of the room, or decorate your mother's bath, and decorate the wall with a colorful panel.

It is desirable that the room is filled with natural light and fresh air through the window. Glass in such a window should be divided into several cells.

Plumbing in Provence-style bathrooms has all the modern features, but has smooth curves and an antique look, such as brushed brass faucet with two valves.

The oval-shaped bathtub stands apart on curved legs. Made from either cast iron or acrylic, it can be protected by a wood grain draped tablet screen.

A metal, porcelain or marble sink is built into a wooden cabinet or chest of drawers. In other cases, it has a console on forged, faience legs or with a cast base.

A shower cabin with wood-like side panels can also safely fit into the style, despite its modernity.

The central chandelier in the bathroom on a whitewashed ceiling is not much different from the chandeliers in other rooms.

Aged wooden furniture with wrought iron fittings is also relevant for the bathroom. For example, a solid chest of drawers, a cabinet, a pencil case, a wall cabinet will successfully fit into the interior. Folded towels and linen are conveniently laid out on open wooden shelves. If space permits, a leather or wicker chair can be placed here.

As style accessories in the bathroom there are thin forged or rural-styled towel racks, wicker baskets made of wicker, a mirror framed by a handmade frame.

Provence style kitchen

French country is the coziest style. Every detail of its interior is imbued with maternal love and care. The tones are soft and calm. Sometimes in French kitchens there is furniture made in dark colors. In this case, the interior decoration and the rest of the decor should be light.

The walls in the kitchen are plastered and painted. Aged wood, tile, stone and brick are most often used locally, to highlight any zones. For example, the "apron" of the working area is lined with natural stone, tiles with a discreet floral pattern or mosaic masonry. The same materials are used for finishing the floor.

A Provence-style kitchen set is easy to purchase from any major furniture manufacturer. But you can also collect assorted items in the kitchen, found in a single copy and restored. This solution is especially relevant for country houses.

A cabinet with a stone top, a sink with a brass valve mixer will successfully fit into a stylized interior. A small square table successfully conveys the atmosphere of a country house. A cupboard with glass doors or simply nailed wooden shelves show off the dishes. Cute little things are placed on open shelves: beautiful ceramic plates, vases with dry flowers, candlesticks, wicker baskets.

Textile is the most recognizable style attribute. Its color and pattern is repeated on all elements: tablecloths, napkins, chair upholstery.

Dining room

In the dining room, decorated in the Provence style, the textures of brickwork or relief plaster are most acceptable. It is recommended to stick to matte milky, beige, pale yellow, light green tones.

Furniture

Solid vintage furniture plays with warm shades of white or natural wood colors. An aged wooden table, round or rectangular, with carved legs, marks the visual center of the room. Chairs are most often selected classic look, upholstered in natural coarse fabric. The dining room is often combined with a kitchen or living room.

Provence style living room

The floors in the living room are usually wooden, plank or natural stone or tile. Replacement with laminate is not allowed.

Furniture

Graceful. The art of the designer is to make the touch of wear not repulse, but enchant. The furniture is arranged slightly casually. A chest of drawers with a mirror suspended above it, a sideboard with porcelain services, vases and other cute little things, other pieces of furniture merge into a single composition of the French country house. And of course, it is hard to imagine Provence without a fireplace in the living room! A chair by the fireplace, covered with a blanket, attracts attention, creating an incredible comfort in the room.

The group of upholstered furniture consists of a sofa and several armchairs with natural fabric upholstery, placed around the table. The latter can be round or rectangular, with carved or curved wooden legs. Light curtains, carpet on the floor, sofa upholstery and other textiles echo each other in color and ornament. Lots of decorative pillows and knick-knacks set the sentimental mood.

As accessories, everything that causes nostalgia for home, for example, family photos in frames, old canvases.

The hallway is usually the smallest and darkest room in the house. Therefore, for finishing materials it is better to choose colors lighter. On the walls in the hallway, the texture of the brickwork looks interesting, bleached or covered with paint in a warm light shade.

Stylish decoration relies on a wooden front door with wrought iron handles and a large mirror in a beautiful frame. From furniture, small mezzanines, cabinets, chest of drawers are preferred. It is good if there is a place for a sofa made of wood or wrought iron, painted white. Chintz, cotton or linen with a small floral pattern are suitable as upholstery.

Provence style nursery

Provence style is well suited for a nursery. Natural materials will preserve health, and natural colors will have a beneficial effect on the emerging psyche of the child.

To decorate the walls in the nursery, pastel-colored wallpaper is most often used, with or without patterns. For boys, a checkered or striped pattern is well suited, and for girls - in the form of small bouquets or individual flowers.

It is better to cover the floors with parquet, board or tiles with a rug so that the child does not catch a cold and does not slip. Multi-level plasterboard structures on the ceiling would be out of place here. It is better to choose a fabric stretch fabric.

Artistic painting of walls, doors or furniture with acrylic paints, made with the help of professionals or independently, will add uniqueness to the interior.

A bed, a bedside table, a children's sofa, a table and a chair for classes, a wardrobe - this is a modest set of items for furnishing a child's room. You can choose neutral furniture that does not stand out in the interior, or, on the contrary, you can focus on it with the help of an interesting color and ancient graceful shapes. Stylish wicker boxes and baskets are perfect for storing toys in them.

The girl’s sleeping place is decorated with rich textiles and many pillows; a canopy is hung over the headboard. In boys, the bed has a more ascetic look.

The child's room should be well lit. In addition to the main chandelier, additional local lamps are installed by the bed, above the study table, above the play area.

Photos of the Provence style apartment

Provence style perfectly adapts to the modern conditions of urban life. This can be clearly seen in the example of a stylish in Barcelona, ​​owned by a family with three children.

Some fragmentation is overcome thanks to the spatial continuity of the interior decoration. The dazzling white color of the walls and ceiling, decorated with stucco, fills the rooms with air and light. Against this clean background, the patterned tiles on the floor look especially bright. Thanks to the changing details of patterns and color accents, it brings amazing dynamics to the interior and at the same time serves as a zoning of space. The heating system and the beauty of the ornament led to the absence of rugs and rugs. It is worth noting that it is much easier to care for tiles than other floor coverings. This is important for a family with growing children.

The dining room and living room are combined. In the living area, simple rectangular-shaped furniture is arranged a little chaotically, which creates a natural, playful mood. Children in such an environment feel very comfortable.

The sofa is upholstered in gray natural fabric with a slightly rough texture in the spirit of the Provence style. The flamboyant design of the table and decorative pillows are designed in the color scheme of the floor tiles.

A few mirrors framed in wrought iron, a poster, globes and other little things complete the look of the room, making it whole.

The dining area appears larger and deeper thanks to a large mirror on the wall. On a snow-white background, an angular old-fashioned sideboard focuses attention, flaunting wine glasses, salad bowls and dishes. The composition of dry plants also emphasizes the style, being its indispensable attribute. She brings a touch of naturalness to the overall composition of the interior. Family photos in colored frames dilute this rather compressed environment, denoting the true values ​​of the apartment owners.

Sunlight, fresh breath of the sea, natural color - all these are integral features of the Provence style. Together with him, the warmth and comfort of the rural life of southern France come to the house.

The Provencal style can be formed by more than one generation, absorbing all the new details and acquiring its own, unique character. But he will always be characterized by elegance and softness, freshness and lightness, simplicity and airiness, romanticism and subtle sensuality.