Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
A line image of the
Virgin Mary
and child is painted on white ceramic tiles on the
northern interior wall. The western wall is dominated by the bolder
Chemin de Croix
(Stations of the Cross).
St Dominic
overlooks the altar. Matisse also designed the chapel's
stone altar, candlesticks, cross and the priests' vestments (displayed in an adjoining hall).
The Vieux Vence
Much of the historical centre dates back to the 13th century. The
Romanesque cathedral
on the eastern side of the square was built in the 11th century on the site of an old Roman
temple. It contains Chagall's
mosaic
of Moses (1979), appropriately watching over the
baptismal font.
The daring
Fondation Émile Hugues
( 04 93 24 24 23; 2 place du Frêne; adult/
child €5/free; 10am-12.30pm & 2-6pm Tue-Sun)
, with its wonderful 20th-century art
exhibitions, inside the imposing Château de Villeneuve, is a nice contrast to Vence's his-
toric quarter.
HISTORIC QUARTER
Sleeping & Eating
La Maison du Frêne €€€
B&B
( 04 93 24 37 83;
www.lamaisondufrene.com
;
1 place du Frêne; d €190; Feb-
Dec; )
This arty guesthouse is quite astonishing. Yes, that Niki de Saint Phalle is an
original. And yes, the César too. It's an essential sleepover for true art lovers, if only to
enjoy the superb rooms with their classic or contemporary looks and original works. Own-
ers and avid art collectors Thierry and Guy are a mine of information on the local art
scene.
Le 2 €€
B&B
( 04 93 24 42 58;
www.le2avence.fr
; 2 rue des Portiques; d €90-150; )
This
'bed & bistro', as it's tagged itself, is a welcome addition to staid Vence. Nicolas and his
family (who also own La Maison du Frêne) have turned this medieval town house into a
hip new establishment offering four very modern rooms, a bistro serving one
plat du jour
(€11) and a pocket-sized cellar featuring local musicians several nights a week. Value and
atmosphere guaranteed.
La Litote €€
MODERN FRENCH
