Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
AIX-EN-PROVENCE
Aix-en-Provence is a sophisticated town. Whether in the dignified squares
and little streets of the Old Quarter or amid the town houses and tree-lined
avenues of the 17th- and 18th-century district, the atmosphere is self-con-
sciously graceful. But it's also lively and fresh: fountains are ubiquitous, as
are students at one of France's oldest universities; the calendar of artistic
events is rich; and the markets are the best in the region. The Romans called
the town “Aquae Sextius”, which evolved into “Aix”, after the thermal
springs which continue to flow here. From the 12th to 15th centuries, the
town was capital of independent Provence and established itself as a cultural
centre, a reputation further enhanced in the 19th century by local artist Paul
Cézanne . Office du Tourisme • 2 pl Général-de-Gaulle • 04 42 16 11 61 •
www.aixenprovencetourism.com
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1. COURS MIRABEAU
Created in 1650, Aix's majestic main avenue is a tunnel of greenery created by giant
plane trees. In their shade stand elegant town houses and, on the northern side,
smart, lively cafés. A succession of fountains adds freshness to the grandeur.
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2. CATHEDRALE ST-SAUVEUR
The focal point of medieval Aix. Notable features are the octagonal, 5th-century bap-
tistery, the 12th-century cloisters and a wonderful Buisson Ardent triptych painted
in 1476 by Nicholas Froment. Cathédrale St-Sauveur • 34 pl des Martyrs de la
Résistance • Open 8am-noon, 2-6pm daily • Free (excl cloisters)
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