What is Provence? #1. Overnight in Provence. Provence France. Cote d'Azur

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The meaning of the word Provence

Provence in the crossword dictionary

provence

Encyclopedic Dictionary, 1998

provence

PROVENCE historical area and a modern economic region in the southeast of France, in the Alps, near the Mediterranean m. On the territory of Provence - the departments of Hautes-Alpes, Alps haute provence, Bouches-du-Rhone, Var, partly Vaucluse and Alpes-Maritimes. 31.3 thousand km2. Population 4.3 million (1992). Main cities: Aix-en-Provence and Marseille. In the 2nd floor. 9th c. kingdom, in the 10th-15th centuries. a county in the "Holy Roman Empire", in 1481 Provence was annexed to France and until 1790 had the status of a province.

Provence

(Provence), a historical region in the south-east. France, on the Mediterranean coast, for the most part in french alps. Together with the historical region of Nice, it forms the planned economic region of Provence-Côte d'Azur. The region includes the departments of Bouches-du-Rhone, Var, Vaucluse, Hautes-Alpes, Bas-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes. The area is 31.8 thousand km2. Population 3.6 million people 12 (1974), over 80% live in cities. Main city≈ Marseille, important cities≈ Nice, Toulon, Aix, Avignon. P. is one of the rapidly growing industrial regions; resort business and tourism are of great importance in the economy. Main industries: mechanical engineering (including shipbuilding), oil refining, petrochemistry, food; they are concentrated chiefly in Marseille and its satellite towns of Berl'Etan, Lavere, and Marignane; ferrous metallurgy is being developed in Fossure-Mer. Petroleum provides the bulk of the bauxite production in the country (the region of Brignoles), and the extraction of sea salt and brown coal. On the Durance, Verdon and other rivers there is a hydroelectric power station. mountainous areas breed sheep and goats. In the valleys and on the coast of the sea, subtropical fruit growing (grapes, fruits, etc.), vegetable growing and floriculture, plantations of olives, essential oil crops, wheat crops; the Rhone Delta is the main rice-producing area in France. In the eastern region, the country's main resort area is the Cote d'Azur.

A. E. Sluka.

In the 2nd century BC e. The territory of P., conquered by Rome, became part of the first Roman province beyond the Alps (Provincia Romana; hence the name P.). In the 5th-6th centuries the territory of P. was conquered by the Visigoths, then by the Burgundians; in 536 annexed to the kingdom of the Franks. In 855-863 P. was an independent kingdom. In 879 P. became part of the kingdom of Lower Burgundy. In the united Kingdom of Burgundy, which was formed around 933, P. had the status of a county. In 1113-1246 it belonged to the Counts of Barcelona, ​​in 1246-1481 to the Angevin dynasty. The early coastal cities of P. (especially Marseilles) turned into major centers Mediterranean trade. In 1481, Palestine was annexed to France, but with the preservation of provincial autonomy, which was gradually curtailed by royal power (in 1489, the post of governor was established in Palestine; in 1535, Palestine was divided into seneschals, etc.). In the 17th century significant popular unrest (mainly of an anti-tax nature) took place in Petrograd. In the 2nd half of the 17th century. (after the suppression of the uprising of 1660 in Marseilles), most of the privileges of P. were liquidated. With the division of the territories of France into departments during the French Revolution, the province of P. ceased to exist.

P. in a broad sense was called until the 16th century. also all southern part France. In this meaning of the word P. is the cradle of a peculiar Provençal culture.

Lit.: Busquet R., Bourrilly V. L., Histoire de la Provence, 4 ed., P., 1966; Histoire de la Provence.

Wikipedia

Provence (manhua)

« Provence is a two-volume manhua by popular Taiwanese manhua author Nikki Li, published by Tong Li Comics in 2004. "Provence" is the name of the cafe, against which stories unfold and the fates of heroes are decided, as well as creating a special unique mood of romance with a touch of jazz music and the aroma of various teas.

Provence

Provence- a historical region in the southeast of France, now part of the Provence - Alpes - Cote 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 capital of Provence is Aix-en-Provence, one of the oldest French cities.

Provence (disambiguation)

Provence:

• Provence is a historical region in the southeast of France.
• Provence is the unofficial name of the kingdom of Lower Burgundy.
• Provence - French ship of the line.
• Provence is a two-volume manhua by Taiwanese author Nikki Lee.
• "Provence" - a single by the singer Yolka.
• Provence - interior design style.

Provence (song)

"Provence"- a song written by Yegor Solodovnikov and recorded by Ukrainian singer Yolka for her fourth studio album "The Points Are Set" (2011). Produced by Konstantin Meladze and arranged by Sergey Grachev, the composition was released as the first single from the album on September 20, 2010.

"Provence" was recorded in the genre of guitar pop music, with a part of the French harmonica. Yolka herself attributed the song to the genre of "popular music" and said that for her "Provence" is a song about "a feeling of inner freedom." According to journalists, the main theme of the composition was a collective image of foreign countries.

The song was positively reviewed by music critics, who called it one of the biggest pop hits of 2011. Magazine time out included the song in his editorial list of "100 Songs That Changed Our Lives", compiled in December 2011. Boris Barabanov in the newspaper "Kommersant" called "Provence" the main and "unconditional Russian-language hit number one" in 2011. Summing up the results of 2011, the Slon.ru online publication called the song "Provence" "the main Russian hit of the year." In December 2011, Afisha magazine included the composition in the list of the brightest and most memorable Russian pop hits over the past 20 years.

The song gained popularity in early 2011. The single topped the charts in Russia and Ukraine. In the general radio chart of the CIS portal Tophit, the song held the first place for seven weeks in a row. "Provence" entered the list of the most downloaded digital tracks in Russia for the first half of 2011, according to data from 2M and Lenta.ru. The composition was also nominated for the 2011 Muz-TV Award, in the categories "Best Song" and " Best video”, received the RU.TV award in the category “Best Song” and the Golden Gramophone award.

The video clip for the song, filmed by Sergey Tkachenko in the village of Shpytky, near Kiev, has become one of the most viewed Russian-language clips on YouTube, with over eight million views. The video was placed on the first line in the list of "20 Pop Clips of the Year" compiled by Alexei Mazhaev for "Zvukov.ru".

Provence (battleship)

"Provence"- French battleship. The last in a series of three French battleships from the 1910s. Despite their classification as superdreadnoughts, the Provence and its sisterships were no larger than the predecessor Courbet class, suffering from the same limitations imposed by the capabilities of the docks available at French naval bases.

Named after the French region of Provence.

Examples of the use of the word Provence in the literature.

Bishops, lay brothers, Franciscan monks, Father Paschalis, Nesterians, Mongolian Prince John, Spain, Provence, Burgundy, Alexandria, a Latin cathedral at the foot of the Alatau, black and purple cassocks, tonsures, spears and crucifixes, these lines of Bartold shimmer with colors!

There was enough money in the begging bowl to buy a ticket across the English Channel, and I was lucky with this job on the street. Provence but still I didn't quite like it, and I was grateful to Mr. Visconti when he took me to Italy.

France - in Provence, Languedoc, Guyenne, Dauphine, Poitou, Normandy, Brittany.

In addition to Swabia, he received an even greater part of Burgundy, Provence, Dauphine and Septimania, lands on both banks of the Mosen, as well as Laon and Reims.

Zola draws the drama of Abbé Mouret against the backdrop of the semi-animal vegetation of farmers Provence.

De Sade lives with Madame Quesnay in Provence where he tries to put his affairs in order.

Offer me all the riches Provence and Persia, I would still prefer to be torn apart by wild horses than to be defeated by a yeomen and succumb in battle to a page or a simple horseman.

Troubadours disappeared with history Provence, destroyed by the crusade against the Albigensians, but many minnesingers crossed the Alps to try their luck at the court of Frederick.

He crossed Provence, swam in a stolen shuttle to the Rhone south of Orange, along the Ardeche deepened into the Cévennes and then moved north to Allier.

While Sade's parents were seduced by the world of Versailles and Paris and urban classicism of the eighteenth century, the ancestors of the Renaissance princelings liked to feel more like grand lords Provence.

These writings show that he felt at ease as he described Paris and Provence eighteenth century, as well as the castles of the Loire two centuries earlier.

When the train started and, leaving the dark long Marseilles tunnel, began to smoothly cut through the deserted quiet plains Provence, became very sad at heart.

The legend about Joseph of Arimathea hides an indisputable truth: not the Grail, but Jesus ended up in France with the Kabbalists from Provence.

Robert remembered that he was already in Provence was inspecting a copy of a device similar to this, which was explained to be able to animate light based on the action of the shadow.

We are waiting for the sights, cities and resorts of the warmest region of France - Provence! And also local delicacies for real gourmets and just lovers like us.

Provence is a place where you can go to relax from the hustle and admire the unforgettable rural and natural landscapes. Here is a dive into majestic world medieval castles, churches and monasteries. Numerous villages are scattered on the hills and slopes of the Alps, which originate here. Often you can see that the villages are located around the old castles and fortresses left over from the time of the Roman Empire.

Provence - interesting facts

Life here is unhurried, in summer the air is filled with floral aromas and the sounds of cicadas. Like nowhere else, in the French province of Provence, you want to pick up a brush and draw all this splendor of nature. It was here that the world-famous artists Van Gogh and Paul Cezanne created their priceless canvases.

By the way, Provence got its name from the ancient Romans, they came here to rest after the conquests.

Where is Provence

Provence is a fairly large region in the south of France. Its exceptional landscape is defined by the foothills of the Alps starting here, fields and a sea of ​​flowers. To understand and explore these places as fully as possible, you can stop in one of the villages from where you can make trips in a rented car. This is very convenient and allows you to travel at your own discretion and at any speed, stopping at places you particularly like.

Of course, you need to get a reliable guide and book a hotel room in advance, especially if the trip is planned for the summer. Farmhouse-hotels with their unique rural flavor are very interesting as rentals.

Housing is provided, as a rule, with a kitchen, and it is possible to cook your own food. But it's best to try gourmet dishes in local restaurants. Truffles are mined in the vicinity, there are a lot of them, which affected the assortment of restaurants. A wonderful earthy aroma with nutty notes fills the air. The collection of truffles in Provence lasts from November to April. Restaurants also offer a lot of seafood, vegetable and fruit dishes, and this is the healthiest food.

Where is it and how to get to Provence

Lavender fields of Provence - when and where to go

France is famous not only for its wines and high fashion and amazing architecture. The symbol of the country is lavender, whose fields, surrounded by wheat, are depicted on tourist postcards. Provence is considered the capital of the flower, in the countryside of which thousands of bulbs of this plant are planted. Because of this, hundreds of hectares of purple landscapes and landscapes have adorned the department, which from afar seem alien and very fantastic. Thanks to photographs, postcards, publications on the Internet and special travel magazines, a huge number of travelers come to Provence every year.

The peak of visitation falls on two summer months - July and August. It is at this time that you need to plan a vacation in Provence 2019 in order to catch the blooming lavender fields.

lavender flowering period

The climate of Provence does not allow flowers to bloom in early spring, only individual buds may open in late May or early June. At this time, the fields look impressive, leaving the horizon, but without lavender blooms. Its period begins only at the very end of June and lasts until the middle of the last summer month, sometimes longer, depending on the weather and the number of sunny days.

Lavender is the most common gift from Provence!

Visiting tourists begins in July, and continues almost until September. In August, lavender flowers are harvested, which coincides with the grain harvest. Thanks to this, the whole region looks even more colorful.

Excursions to the lavender fields of Provence 2019

You can inspect the fields, both independently and as part of organized tourist groups. In any case, you need to do this by car or bicycle.

The ideal solution would be to rent a car in one of major cities if you are fluent in French. But even more convenient is to order a car rental in Provence in advance, pick up the car at the airport and then plan your vacation at your discretion. So it will be most convenient to move around the landscapes in order to slowly see the sights and admire the flowers.

You can get to the fields and public transport. True, in this case, travelers will depend on the bus schedule and a specific route scheme.

Where does lavender grow in Provence?

Flowers are planted mainly in rural areas, where there are farms for the production of oil, esters, drying lavender. Also, almost every resident of the region plants small bushes of a plant on his plot. The centers of intensive cultivation of lavender are the northern regions of Provence, which include Upper Alpine, Haut-Vaucluse, Drome-Provencal. The capital is considered small cozy town Sol, which is located in Haute-Vaucluse. It is here that the fields resemble an endless fluffy carpet, the aroma of which is felt far beyond the region. For the convenience of tourists, numerous walking paths have been laid here. They have different levels of difficulty during the passage, as evidenced by special signs.

In Drome-Provence, lavender is adjacent to other fields - sunflowers, wheat, vineyards.

In every region of Provence there are villages that specialize in the production of cosmetics and lavender essential oils. In one of the settlements - Kustelle - various mechanisms are collected that have been used for many centuries when working with flowers.

Travel itinerary in Provence

Now we know that Provence is associated with lavender fields, as well as Nice and the ports of the Côte d'Azur, crowded with expensive yachts.

However, this one can open up from a different side if you start a journey through it from the outback. Namely - from small towns and villages located high in the mountains and on the banks of picturesque rivers. Try to realize our Provence travel option - you will see the lavender fields and get to know the most beautiful region countries.

Route map

The total length of the Provence travel route by car is 300 km.

#1. Saint Remy de Provence

Streets and serpentines of Saint-Remy-de-Provence (France)

You can start your journey through the Provence region from the town of Saint-Remy-de-Provence, captured in the paintings of Van Gogh, along the streets of which the artist used to walk a lot. Van Gogh painted here the Alps, olive groves, many of which have survived to this day, because the life of an olive tree reaches a thousand years.

#2. Glanum and Egalier

Here is located the ancient city of Glanum with beautiful bas-reliefs and a mausoleum in honor of Emperor Augustus. Many tourists visit this attraction every year.

You can stay in Egallera - a small village of ancient Roman origin. Here you should definitely see the chapel of St. Sixtus, picturesque, as if descended from a picture, the ruins of a castle of the 12th century, many churches and monasteries. In the summer, local residents organize many various festivals, parades, holidays to honor the patrons of agriculture and animal husbandry. Celebrations are accompanied by costume processions. These can be seen almost every week.

#3. Arles and Avignon

It is worth visiting the major cities of Provence - Arles and Avignon. Arles was once chosen by Caesar as the capital of Provence, and there is an ancient Roman theater in which bull performances are still performed to this day. Widely known in Arles is the church of St. Trophime with its famous bas-relief depicting the Day of Judgment. The bas-relief carved a line of sinners chained and heading to hell - a very expressive reminder of human sins.

Avignon is located to the north, 25 miles from Arles. Once here for 70 years was the palace of the Pope. You can see the bridge over the Rhone River, which, however, was never completed. Therefore, it is only half of the bridge, but it looks quite grandiose and unusual.

#4. Luberon and Roussillon

Let's move closer to nature small town Luberon, where vast purple lavender fields are spread, blooming at the end of June. This is how we most often imagine Provence! Lavender is harvested in September and used in all kinds of cosmetics.

Another interesting town is Roussillon. The walls of all the houses here are red - the color of ocher, mined on the slopes of neighboring hills. So it was originally, and now this image is maintained for tourism purposes.

#5. Aix-en-Provence

You can also go to Aix-en-Provence - a lively student city with a huge number of fountains. The local market is replete with a variety of colors of vegetables and fruits and intoxicates with the aromas of coffee, lavender and spices - here you will surely find the best souvenirs from Provence, both gastronomic and cosmetic. IN major cities Provence has a market day every week, each city has its own, for example, Thursday or Saturday.

Aix-en-Provence is famous for the fact that it was there that Paul Cezanne painted his famous still lifes, which he considered animated.

#6. Cassis

If you are drawn to the sea, then a good choice is an excursion to the port fishing town of Cassis, where, in addition to the sea and the beach, there are vineyards and beautiful white rocks. You can take one of the types of sea routes, many of which involve stops for a refreshing swim in the sea.

Where to stay in Provence 2019

To enjoy the beauty of Provence to the fullest, you will need to book a couple of overnight stays along the route. The first stop can be made in Egallières/Arles, the second in Roussillon or Aix-en-Provence.

#1. Overnight stay in Provence

After devoting the day to Saint-Remy-de-Provence, the villages of Glanum and Egalier, you can stay overnight in Egalier or drive to a large settlement - the city of Arles.

#2. Overnight stay in Provence

After seeing Arles and Avignon, steer towards the Luberon Valley. You can stay in the heart of Provence both in Roussillon and a little further - in Aix-en-Provence.

How to get to Provence - flights

The Provence region has international Airport. It is located in the capital of the Cote d'Azur - Nice. Airport "Nice - Côte d'Azur" ("Nice Cote d'Azur") accepts direct flights from Moscow. In the high season (from May to October), the cost of tickets on the Moscow-Nice route starts from 11,500 rubles round trip. You can get to Nice from Moscow in just 3.5 hours.

Our compatriots first arrive at, at the airport. Charles de Gaulle. Then they move closer to the south to explore Provence.

Is it profitable? Perhaps only if you want to see Paris no less than Provence. And after spending a week in the capital, go to Nice. The fact is that Moscow-Paris flights are only a couple of thousand cheaper than a Moscow-Nice flight.

To get to Provence from Paris, choose one of three options:

• Own car(it can be pre-rented). The distance from Paris to Nice is about 1000 km. On the A6 and A7 highways, it will take you about 8-10 hours;
• Public transport. It can be either a train or an intercity scheduled bus. In the latter case, the journey will take more than 17 hours;
• Domestic flight Paris-Nice. Daily on your own popular route France is made from 25 flights. You can use the services airlines Air France, EasyJet, British Airways and others. Departures are carried out both from international Charles de Gaulle (Roissy) and from domestic airports - Orly and a little less often Le Bourget.

• 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 deep canyon 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 simplest and fast way- 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 shops

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 is not every day that you get to see hundreds of sculptures built from lemons and taste the local cuisine prepared from them! The theater festival in Avignon completes the half-year begun by the Menton festivities. For a few weeks country town attracts the attention not only of the whole of France, but of 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 delighted 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 "The most beautiful villages of 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.

Each of us has heard about Provence. French province will not leave indifferent any tourist. historical region located in the southeast of the country, at the foot of the Alps on the Mediterranean coast. Visiting Provence is the dream of every traveler.

A bit of history

Provence is currently the most attractive region of France. The region has absorbed the most unique historical traditions, surprisingly beautiful nature And ancient monuments architecture. Where is Provence located? His lands are located in the south-east of France. The region is located in several natural and climatic zones. From the west it is organic and in the east it borders on the Alpine mountains. Well, in the south, the coast of Provence is washed by the sea. coastal zone often referred to as the Côte d'Azur. Enviable lands have always called big interest from neighbors, and therefore in the entire history of the region, more than once there was a struggle for the right to own it. It is for this reason that the region has such a rich and complex history. Over the centuries, the region has absorbed a combination of a variety of cultures. In the history of Provence there were periods of prosperity and decline.

To date, it includes the departments of Var, Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhone, as well as partially the lands of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Alpes-Maritimes. The center of the region is famous city Marseille, which can safely be called one of the oldest settlements in French lands.

History of Provence

Numerous archaeological excavations, repeatedly held in the region, say that the first settlements in Provence appeared about half a million years before our era. According to historians, at present these are the most ancient places of residence of people on Earth, which are reliably confirmed by archaeological finds. In the sixth century BC, Greek sailors who appeared on the shores of Provence agreed with the local Ligurian tribes and founded several large port cities on the coast - Nicaea, now called Nice, and Massalia, now Marseille.

It was the first Greeks who brought the basics of agriculture to the region, having landed on local lands vineyards and olive groves. Some time later, the Massaliot Empire was formed in the province. And already in the second century BC, the Roman colonization of the region began. During this period, Roman troops entered the territory of Provence under the pretext of military assistance to the Massaliotes in the war with the Salien tribe. By the way, it was thanks to the Romans that the region acquired its current name, since the conquerors called it simply “province”.

The era of Roman rule had a positive impact on the history of the region. The Romans were excellent administrators, they managed to create an excellent infrastructure. It was they who built beautiful new fortified cities, interconnected by a network of roads. After the fall of the Roman Empire in Provence, not the most better times. The territory was alternately captured and plundered by barbarian tribes. Later from Spain and North Africa no less bloodthirsty hordes of Moors came, who managed to stop Charles Martel. At the same time, Provence was introduced to Christianity. From the tenth to the fourteenth century, clashes between different count dynasties did not subside in the province. Each family fought for influence in these lands. In addition, pirates raided Provence. In addition, the region suffered from plague epidemics.

And already in the sixteenth century, the region was annexed to France. Not only was Provence torn apart by religious conflicts from the inside, the province also took part in territorial disputes between Italy and France, which turned the region into a battlefield for many years.

The Cote d'Azur became fully French only in the middle of the nineteenth century. And the name "Côte d'Azur" was also fixed in the second half of the nineteenth century, when the largest coastal cities became fashionable resorts. After the railway connection appeared here, royal persons and famous aristocrats from all over Europe began to visit the region.

Arles

Speaking about the region, it is worth remembering its settlements. The cities of Provence are as interesting as the region itself. One of the oldest cities is Arles, which is currently the most important transport hub of Provence. From the city it is incredibly convenient to get to the historical and natural corners of the region. Since Arles has the status of the historical center of the region, it attracts the attention of creative people, thanks to which the city has many examples of painting and architecture.

Attractions Arles

The cities of Provence are incredibly interesting in terms of their sights. So, for example, in Arles you can see the ancient Arelat - the ancient city of the Ligurian tribe, which is included in the UNESCO heritage list. In it you can see the Roman amphitheater, baths, partially preserved fortifications of the city, the ruins of the palace and more. No less interesting for tourists is the ancient Roman cemetery, turned into the Aliskan necropolis, in which the most noble citizens of the city were buried. Also worth a visit antique museum cities. On main square The city is home to the ancient Cathedral of Saint-Tropheme, dating back to the twelfth century. According to legend, the temple was founded on the site of the baptism of St. Augustine. The building is surrounded by ancient monasteries, each of which has its own history.

Interesting facts about the culture and history of Provence can be found in the Reato and Arlaten museums. The city has beautiful embankment, known for that Van Gogh himself walked along it. Here he painted many amazing paintings. By the way, in the city you can visit bullfights, which are a source of pride for local residents. Bullfighting is held throughout the summer period. Interestingly, the townspeople are passionate fans of such a bloody entertainment.

Capital of Provence

The region has many interesting cities. But it is worth remembering the capital. Aix-en-Provence can safely be called historical and cultural center the edges. In all his appearance there is a certain aristocracy and conservatism.

It is worth noting that until the twelfth century the city was the capital of Provence, and therefore attracted talented individuals who contributed to its appearance. The city is located thirty kilometers from the Mediterranean Sea. It is located among the thermal springs that played a significant role in the history of Aix-en-Provence.

City `s history

The history of Aix-en-Provence begins with the Roman era. From the fourth century BC, Ligurian tribes inhabited the lands of Lower Provence. And a little north of the territory The current capital of Provence was the ancient Antremont. However, after the arrival of the Romans, a new colony for legionnaires was built on the territory of the destroyed Antremont among the thermal springs.

The very first mention of the city dates back to 122 BC. Aix-en-Provence was originally built for preservation trade route between Rome and Massalia. But already in the fourth century the city became the capital of Narbo. In the future, the capital of Provence was repeatedly captured by different tribes. The city reached its greatest prosperity during the reign of the counts. It was at this time that it became a university and cultural center. Lush carnivals and grandiose festivities were held here. After the region became part of France, the viceroy of the king moved to the capital of Provence. Until the French Revolution, the city had its own parliament and Supreme Court. Aix-en-Provence created and lived The city was badly damaged during the 1909 earthquake.

The city's attractions

If you are planning a vacation in Provence, then you should definitely see it. cultural capital. The city is beautiful in every way. What to see in Aix-en-Provence? The city is full of historical and cultural places. The tour should start from Mirabeau Boulevard, which is the main street of the city. The boulevard was laid in the eighteenth century. It connects the beautiful Rotunda fountain with the monument to King René. Walking along the street, you can look at the beautiful mansions of the sixteenth and nineteenth centuries, built of yellow stone. Tourists will certainly be interested in the Saint-Lazare chapel, the Madeleine church, Art Museum Tapiseri and Museum of the Old City. A lot of various shops with souvenirs and books have been built on the boulevard. The building of the Archbishop's Palace houses the Tapestry Museum, where you can see furniture and tapestries from the period of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries.

Numerous museums of Aix-en-Provence allow you to learn a lot of interesting things from the history of the city. So, for example, in the Suzey of old Aix, you can see vivid illustrations from the life of the nobility of the era of the reign of Louis the fourteenth. The interior of the house clearly demonstrates the dazzling luxury in which the nobles lived. It is said that Louis XIV visited this mansion.

In the Mazarin quarter, you can see the outstanding sights of Aix-en-Provence. One of them is the church of Saint-Jean-de-Malt, dating from the thirteenth century. An interesting fact is that services are still held in the temple. It is known that the building is the first Gothic church in the city. Not far from the temple is the Granet Museum, which contains art objects, archaeological finds and artifacts. But the main pride of the institution is the largest collection of Cezanne's works.

Numerous tourists are attracted by the Place d'Alberta, which was built in the middle of the eighteenth century. Of interest is the harmonious connection beautiful fountain with area. Nearby is the most beautiful palace of Boyer d'Aiguill, which houses the Museum of Natural History. Its exposition consists of the remains of dinosaurs, a large collection of insects and plants. This place attracts many tourists from all over the world.

Avignon

Avignon is another stunning city in the region. While traveling in Provence, you can see many interesting cities, each of which certainly boasts interesting history. Avignon is located in an incredibly picturesque place at the confluence of two full-flowing rivers: the Durance and the Rhone. The city is an outstanding cultural and religious center countries. IN historical center Avignon are numerous historical monuments, beautiful buildings and ancient churches, which are included in the UNESCO heritage lists.

Sights of Avignon

The old part of the city is surrounded by a chain of fortifications built in the fourteenth century. Such powerful fortifications were erected to protect the monastery of the popes, nine of them lived here in different times. The fortifications did not have a special military significance, they rather fulfill an architectural role. It is the walls that separate the historical part of the city from the modern quarters. Tourists are always attracted by the huge papal palace, consisting of the tower of angels, the treasury, gardens and the building of the palace itself. Nearby is the Rocher-des-Dome park and the ancient Pont-Saint-Benez bridge, which old times connected the city with the suburbs.

No less interesting is Notre-Dame-des-Dome - a cathedral built in the twelfth century. Its building majestically rises above the city, located on the Rock de Dome. The buildings of the complex belong to completely different architectural styles, which causes a lot of controversy among connoisseurs.

Lavender fields

The lavender fields of Provence are something without which it is impossible to imagine this beautiful region. Endless purple fields extend so far that you can not see their edge. If you want to admire such beauty, then you should use summer tour to Provence. After all, it is in summer that stunning flowers bloom (from early June to mid-July). But in August, farmers begin to harvest, later using essential oils for the production of cosmetics - perfumes, soaps, etc.

Huge lavender fields cover the northern regions of Provence. It is in these parts that you can see the largest and most beautiful lavender fields. Tourists are even specially brought to look at such an attractive beauty so that they can wander through the flower thickets and inhale the wonderful aroma. By the way, next to the flower plantations there are abbeys and synagogues, which are also interesting to see.

Lavender oil is produced on only cosmetical tools, but also expensive alcoholic drinks, balms. locals lavender is used in cooking.

During the flower harvest, some farms organize excursions, during which you can learn more about the nuances of growing plants and processing. In the city of Kustel there is even a real lavender museum, it was opened in 1991. At the institution there is a shop that sells perfumes, soap, honey and other souvenirs made on the basis of lavender.

Provence cuisine

If you go on vacation to Provence, then the local cuisine will certainly win you over. Amazing dishes deserve the attention of tourists. It's no secret that in Provence they grow a wide range of spices, which are invariably used by the inhabitants themselves. Among them there is basil, fennel, cumin, rosemary and others.

In addition, it is worth remembering that Provence is also famous for its olive oils and the famous ratatouille stew, which is made from eggplant and tomatoes. Sold in local markets a large number of fruits and unique wines with a rich taste.

Sea holidays in Provence

Many tourists traveling to Provence prefer to relax in Marseille. This old City incredibly handsome and developed infrastructure. As you know, the region is known for its stunning coastline. Therefore, many holidaymakers choose Provence for a beach and sea holiday. What other sea can compare with the beautiful waters washing the shores of the resort?! No wonder the local coast is called Azure.

Tourists note the incredibly beautiful beaches of Marseille, which are equipped with everything that is needed for vacationers. Therefore, going to Provence, you can count on a comfortable stay. One of the most famous places on the coast is the Prado beach, nestled in the greenery of the plantations. Despite all the fame, this place can be safely called calm and harmonious. But for romantic getaway worth to visit pebble beach with the characteristic name of De Love, which is known for its stunning landscapes.

If you prefer relaxing on the sandy coast, then you should pay attention to Corbières and Forten.

Resorts on the Cote d'Azur have long been considered one of the most prestigious in the world. And because here you can meet celebrities relaxing by the sea. Only in Nice there are more than twenty beaches, among which you can find more peaceful places. local coast has a pebbly surface and excellent infrastructure. It is difficult to find such an abundance of entertainment anywhere else.

There are beautiful sandy beaches in the vicinity of Nice. And many also go on holiday to Cannes. By the way, not all tourists are aware that the sandy coast of Cannes is artificial. But that in no way makes it worse. And, of course, it is worth remembering the most prestigious places coast near the Croisette. These beaches are well equipped and suitable for even the most demanding guests. Not far from the building of the Palace of Festivals there is a public beach, which is open to everyone, and you can relax on it completely free of charge.

Provence is a paradise for holidaymakers. Very popular place recreation is also the city of Antibes. It is usually considered as a single entity with Juan-les-Pins. The length of the sandy coast of this area is about 24 kilometers. Here you can find not only private, but also public places. Antibes is very popular among yachting fans. In addition, the city is also loved by active young people, since an incredible number of bars and nightclubs operate on its coast.

When discussing the resorts of Provence, it is also worth remembering the beautiful Saint-Tropez. The city is sure to appeal to nature lovers. to the local sandy beaches pine forests almost come close. Tourists can combine beach holiday with walks and excursions picturesque places. The most prestigious beach of Saint-Tropez is De Pampelonne, which is often visited by world celebrities.

Provence is not only luxury resorts, but also numerous natural beauty. Tourists recommend going to the Grand Canyon, in which the gorge is located, which is considered the largest in all of Europe. In addition, the place is incredibly picturesque. The stunning emerald green of the Verdon River and the beautiful Sainte-Croix lake blend harmoniously with the natural greenery of the Provencal vegetation.

If your path through Provence runs through Marseille, then you should visit the famous Chateau d'If, which was built to protect the city from attacks, but by coincidence became famous prison. The castle was made famous by Dumas' novel The Count of Monte Cristo. Now the fortress is open to visitors, and you can see the camera of Edmond Dantes in it, although in fairness it should be noted that the main character of Dumas' novel is fictional.

Provence is stunningly beautiful and interesting region filled with all sorts of historical places and attractions. There are so many of them here that one trip is simply not enough to see at least the most significant objects.