Picasso, Kahlo, and The Little Prince at the Carrières des Lumières in Les Baux

The Carrières des Lumières (Quarry of Light) is one of the most remarkable venues in France. Described as “a magical sound and light show inside a mountain,” it’s a must-see for any visitor to Provence. This immersive show takes place in the Alpilles, at Les Baux-de-Provence, inside an old stone quarry, where art images are projected alongside a music playlist. This year, two artists known for their striking artworks take center stage – Pablo Picasso and Frida Kahlo.

Picasso Leads the Way

The main program is Picasso, Art in Motion, featuring perhaps the most important artist of the 20th century. Beginning with the melancholy blues and delicate pinks of his early works, we see Picasso move to the sombre gray of the monumental Guernica, the pastels of The Demoiselles of Avignon, and more. We also see the faces of some of the women who filled his life and were the subjects of major works.

As with all programs at the Carrières des Lumières, Picasso’s art moves and flows along the cavern’s rocky walls and ceilings, accompanied by a lively soundtrack.

The Spirit of Mexico

Joining Picasso in the short program is Frida Kahlo, At the Very Heart. To dive into the world of Frida Kahlo is to enter into the heart of a fiery, vibrant life shaped by passion, freedom, and pain. Kahlo’s vividly colored works, full of symbols and emotions, combine plants, organic motifs, and elements of Mexican folklore.

Kahlo: © Culturespaces / Vincent Pinson

Return of the Prince

Only during six days in April, the popular The Little Prince program will be re-shown. Already viewed by over 100,000 people, it celebrates the 80th anniversary of Saint-Exupéry’s masterpiece. Tickets are sure to sell out, so book them early if you are interested.

©Perfectly Provence

Practical Information

Carrières des Lumières
Route de Maillane
Les Baux-de-Provence

The Carrières des Lumières is the largest fixed multimedia installation in France. The 14-metre-high walls serve as the backdrop for over 100 video projectors that broadcast images. More information, including hours and ticketing, is available on the Carrières des Lumières website.

The main program typically runs about 30 minutes, followed by the second artist for roughly 10 minutes. These back-to-back programs run continuously throughout the day.

Buying your tickets online in advance is highly recommended.

Carrières des Lumières is open every day, including public holidays. However, the opening hours change slightly depending on the season. The last admission is one (1) hour before the Carrières closes.

There is a small gift shop at the entrance to the Carrières for souvenirs and books.

Café des Carrières is open daily for light meals inside the venue.

Parking is limited and challenging during the busiest periods. The best time to visit Carrières des Lumières is often early morning or late afternoon after 17h. Otherwise, parking can be challenging.

This show is suitable for anyone with mobility issues, as there are a few stairs and ramps where necessary.

The interior of the show space is fresh, which is fabulous on a hot summer day. However, it can still feel cold, so it is best to bring a sweater or a cover-up.

Image Credits

Picasso: © Succession Picasso 2025, © Culturespaces / Vincent Pinson
Kahlo: © Culturespaces / Vincent Pinson
Little Prince: © Perfectly Provence

Full day Bandol & Cassis Discovery Wine Tour from Marseille

Begin your journey in the medieval village of Le Castellet, perched elegantly atop a wooded hill overlooking lush vineyards. Next, venture into the renowned Bandol wine region.

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Keith Van Sickle

Keith and Val Van Sickle made their first trip to Provence decades ago, and it was love at first sight. After that, they came back every year until 2008, when they began a part-time life there, splitting their time between Provence and California.

Over the years, they’ve travelled all over Provence, seeing sights both well-known and obscure. Their French friends have introduced them to favourite restaurants and wineries and picnic spots and taught them funny local expressions (not all for polite company).

Keith now shares this local knowledge in his new book, An Insider’s Guide to Provence. Packed with the Van Sickles’ favourite things to see and do, it’s a must-have for anyone travelling to this glorious corner of France.

Keith previously published two books about the couple's experiences in Provence. One Sip at a Time: Learning to Live in Provence, and Are We French Yet?, both are available from Amazon.

You can see all of Keith’s blog posts at Life in Provence.