FRANCE: Aix en Provence in the South of France

Provence and the South of France has a mystical air of romanticism to it.

John is a big Francophile, so we decided to create a "home base" in Aix en Provence to explore the area and soak up the lifestyle and culture of Southern France. 

The history goes back centuries. 

The Romans settled here in part due to ready access to natural springs. Aix en Provence is often referred to as the city of water. As the town began to take shape during the Middle Ages, there were hundreds of fountains created for  domestic use. 

Now there are just 30 fountains that are still in use.

In medieval times Aix prospered as a centre of learning and the arts. And the wealthy came to Aix.  

Cézanne:

One of the city's claim to fame is as the home to the artist Cézanne. Ironically, when he was alive they never embraced him, but now, the city boasts his fame at every opportunity. 

You can follow Cézanne walking trails in the city. 

They have a lookout to Sanite-Victoire Mountain where he used to come to paint outside. 

It is interesting, they show the same scene painted numerous times in different lights and different seasons. 

This painting by Maurice Denis shows him perhaps in this same spot.

Markets:

Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays are market days. I can't say I know what time they open as we are not up at the crack of dawn, at the best of times. 

There are markets for fruits and vegetables.

Meat, cheese and fish

I like this lady because she looks to me like the epitome of a French lady going to the market for her fresh produce.

And then there are the clothing and general goods markets. 

And of course, there have to be lavender and honey in the markets in Provence. 

The markets start closing down about 12:00pm - 12:30pm to convert the squares to al fresco cafes and restaurants. 

Which is also another word for "People Watching", which is a popular past-time.

Its an easy culture and life to adapt to.

John, the Francophile, is a happy man.