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.

Gaspard de Besse: Robin Hood of Provence

September 20, 2016

Contributor blog post by Margo Lestz: Just like Robin Hood, Gaspard de Besse robbed from the rich (who detested him) and gave to the poor (who adored him). But while Robin Hood’s roots are shrouded in mystery, there’s no doubt about the identity of our French outlaw. …Continue reading here for details on France’s Robin Hood …

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Explore · Provencal History & Traditions · Stay Fit

Mur de la Peste a Rocky Trail in Provence’s History

September 13, 2016

Over 100,000 people (some estimates as high as 126,000) died in Provence between 1720 and 1722, including almost 50% of Marseille’s population some 46,000 inhabitants. All in the name of commerce. The Grand Saint-Antoine arrived in Marseille’s port on May 25, 1720, from Syria (previously Levan), the vessel was late, delayed due to weather and …

Chiara Orlandi · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

The Blue Chair: Symbol of Nice

August 16, 2016

Like theTour Eiffel of Paris or the Big Ben of London, La chaise bleue has long been considered the symbol of Nice. The iconic chairs, as blue as the rippling Bay of Angels they overlook, are wedged in rows of 20 along the famous Promenade des Anglais. While in winter it is relatively easy to …

Ashley Tinker · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Must See in Provence: Abrivado-Bandido

August 5, 2016

This past weekend, in our small town, there were constant animations of live music, parades, and lots and lots of bull running to celebrate Bastille Day. While visiting Provence, you must see one of these abrivado-bandido events. Before the weekend tall steel barriers were installed all along the main road. Continue reading here for more of …

Barefoot Blogger · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Saintes-Maries-De-La-Mer Who Knew?

June 8, 2016

Planning a visit to the Camargue to see the white horses? Here’s another stop to add to your list. What I love about living in France is not only the opportunity to travel in this fabulous country but also the chance to re-learn history. What I never expected, though, was to find biblical folklore. Who …

Ginger and Nutmeg · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Provencal Laundry all Washed up in France’s Lavoirs

June 6, 2016

Water sloshes against the sides of the shallow stone basin of the lavoir as weathered hands vigorously scrub at stubborn stains. Kneeling on their augets washerwomen exchange tidbits of town gossip as they work to brighten their laundry. Before communal lavoirs, personal washing was done sparingly by the side of rivers or using precious well …

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott · Inspire · Provencal History & Traditions

Essential Reading to Understand the Cowboys of Provence

May 20, 2016

Understanding the Cowboys of Provence Summer days in Provence are bathed in sunshine and surrounded by a chorus of cicadas. In the Bouches du Rhone, the blinding blue skies and the sweltering heat are also prime time for village festivals surrounding horse and bull events. These horsemen and women are extremely talented frequently testing the …

Newer Posts 1 2 … 14 15

Villefranche-sur-Mer Gem 1-bedroom holiday rental

Le Petit Bijou is a 1-bedroom apartment on Villefranche's waterfront. The apartment is fully outfitted, ideal for a Riviera holiday.

Côte d’Azur (French Riviera)
One Bedroom

VIEW THIS LISTING

Le Clos du Buis Hotel in Bonnieux

Le Clos du Buis welcomes guests to a family-run 10 room hotel in the heart of Bonnieux in the Luberon Valley. Tasteful Provencal décor combined with modern comforts.

Luberon
Vaucluse
Boutique Hotels

VIEW THIS LISTING

5-Bedroom Country House Near Apt

Chez Manon is a private countryside location that is large enough for family gatherings and a relaxing place to unwind and explore Provence.

Luberon
Vaucluse
Five Bedrooms

VIEW THIS LISTING

French Riviera 2-Bedroom Holiday Apartment

Chez Nous is a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom penthouse apartment on a quiet pedestrian street known as Villefranche-sur-Mer's garden street.

Côte d’Azur (French Riviera)
Two Bedrooms

VIEW THIS LISTING

Large Property Near Aix - Ferme du Val

Ferme du Val is a spacious seven (7) bedroom home, including a studio apartment that sleeps, 14 people. Available for short or long-term rental.

Bouches du Rhone
Seven Bedrooms

VIEW THIS LISTING

Provence Marketplace

Sunflower Design Provencal Table Linens and Cushions

Provence's sunflower for your home with this beautiful collection in two background colours (white or blue). Choose from tablecloths (of different sizes), runners and cushions. Made with 100% cotton these products from Remember Provence are durable and easy to clean.

Buy Now

Maison Pichon Braided Ceramic Baskets

My French Country Home is showcasing Maison Pichon braided ceramic baskets. These decorative pottery stands are beautiful decorations but equally practical on your kitchen counter for fruit or other objects. Available in two colours, the Maison Pichon products are handmade in Uzes.

Buy Now

Great Tote Bag in Cotton String

Bring on warm weather with these Cotton String Bags in three colours (white, tan, and black). Take this tote from My French Country Home box to the market, beach or an evening out. Buy one in each colour, as they are the perfect accessory for Spring and Summer seasons.

Buy Now

Provencal Market Basket

My French Country Home sourced this classic French market basket. This basket is great for shopping, picnics or days at the beach. Made from palm fibre with leather straps, you can even use it as a handbag!

Buy Now

Bright and Beautiful Table Linens from Provence

Discover the Beaulieu linen collection features Provence's iconic sunflower in yellows and blues. This collection includes , napkins and table runners. Made with 100% cotton these products from Remember Provence are durable and easy to clean.

Buy Now

Spring Menu Collection

Spring recipes from Provence is organized by course, from starters to desserts. We have featured menus crafted by our favourite food enthusiasts who have shared our love for Provence for several years. This spring recipe collection brings many of those delicious dishes together in one place. These menus, spanning multiple courses, are a testament to their connection with the region and the use of seasonal ingredients.

Buy Now

Quilted Tote Bags in Provencal Fabrics

These large tote bags come in a range of Provencal fabrics. Whether you choose lavender, wild flowers or one of the other two patterns these sturdy bags are light yet strong enough to carry all the necessary accessories and even a laptop. The bags are made with printed and quilted fabric and have solid handles.

Buy Now

French Linen Table Runner

A linen table runner that is the perfect combination of rustic and refined. The embroidered stitching enhances the neutral-coloured linen. Add this French Address runner to your collection.

Buy Now

Floral-scented Candle

Created for the Rose et Marius founder, this candle fragrance includes jasmine, roses, iris, orange blossom and vanilla bouquets. This candle - Rose's scented water - smells like sunshine in Provence. Buy these refillable candles as gifts or for your home.

Buy Now

Download Our Summer Menu Collection

Provencal History & Traditions

Gaspard de Besse: Robin Hood of Provence

Mur de la Peste a Rocky Trail in Provence’s History

The Blue Chair: Symbol of Nice

Must See in Provence: Abrivado-Bandido

Saintes-Maries-De-La-Mer Who Knew?

Provencal Laundry all Washed up in France’s Lavoirs

Essential Reading to Understand the Cowboys of Provence

About Perfectly Provence

Our Provence Marketplace

Explore Our Contributors