Download Our Summer Menu Collection

Since summer entertaining should be a breeze, this collection, designed with simplicity in mind, features 20 easy-to-follow recipes and a few menu suggestions. Download this PDF, which includes recipes for starters, main courses, side dishes, and desserts.

 Provencal History & Traditions

History is ever present in Provence from the remaining traces of the Romans to cultural and culinary influences from around the Mediterranean. Local traditions have evolved from a society very dependant on agriculture and the sea. Many of these customs are maintained today in local festivals and annual celebrations.

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Inspire · Keith Van Sickle · Provencal History & Traditions

Exploring Van Gogh’s Era: The Sicard Sisters Photographers in Provence

April 25, 2025
What was Provence really like in the days of Vincent van Gogh? Vincent Van Gogh spent two years in Provence, first in Arles and then at a mental asylum called Saint-Paul le Mausole in St-Rémy-de-Provence. His time in Provence was remarkably productive, with an output of over 200 paintings, including masterpieces like The Starry Night …
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Guest Post · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Nîmes UNESCO Maison Carrée is it Really Square?

January 20, 2025
The residents of Nîmes (Nîmois) are incredibly proud of their Roman heritage. The Maison Carrée is renowned for being one of the most remarkably well-preserved Roman monuments, alongside Rome’s Pantheon. Renovated in 1992 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023, it has gained even greater fame and visibility. But is Nîmes’ Maison Carrée …
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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Christmas Traditions in Provence a Festive Guide to the Holidays

December 2, 2024
In Provence, Christmas is a festive season lasting over two months with many holiday traditions. While there are commercial aspects to the holidays in Provence and the rest of France, many old customs continue today. At this time of year, there is vin chaud, little saints (santons), thirteen desserts, holiday markets and tiny pots of …
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Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Revealing the Secrets of Ice Production at Provence’s Glacières

August 19, 2024
Provence, known for its scorching summers, may not seem ideal for ice production. Yet, between 1650 and 1885, many ice houses (glacières) were ingeniously constructed in the region. This historical innovation, born out of necessity, is a testament to the resourcefulness and some royal assistance. Ice Production Provence’s Glacières In the 17th century, when Provence …
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Inspire · Keith Van Sickle · Provencal History & Traditions · What's On Provence & Cote d'Azur

WWII Liberation of Aix-en-Provence a Photo Exhibition Until October

August 13, 2024
A unique photo exhibition will be shown in Aix-en-Provence to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the city’s liberation on August 21, 1944. Called Ombres et Lumières (Shadows and Light), it traces the history of Aix between 1930 and 1950, with particular emphasis on the war years. The show, organized by the CEPPIA Foundation and the …
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Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions · Virginie Van Der Wees

Discovering French Bastille Day Traditions in Provence

July 5, 2024
On July 14, 1789, an angry mob stormed the Bastille in Paris, which housed only seven inmates. To an enraged crowd, the medieval structure represented a landmark symbolizing their frustration with the reigning monarchy, a weak economic environment, high taxes and a lack of personal financial control. This milestone event sparked the start of the …
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