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 …

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 …

There is an excellent small museum in the Alpilles village of Saint-Andiol. The museum’s archive recounts the life of World War II hero Jean Moulin, and it is well worth a visit. For those unfamiliar with him, Jean Moulin is the man who unified the French Resistance before being captured …

In a previous article, I reviewed Ten (10) historic Jewish sites in Provence – the details are included below. Recently, I discovered that 2024 marks several anniversaries of the Cavaillon synagogue:  the 250th anniversary of its construction, the 100th anniversary of it being classed as a Historic Monument of France, …

2024 is the year of Marcel Pagnol in Provence, marking the 50th anniversary of his death in 1974. Several special events will be held throughout the year to celebrate the life and works of this brilliant author and filmmaker. Pagnol Celebrations The festivities begin in Aubagne on February 28, Pagnol’s …

France has a thriving Jewish community, the third largest in the world after Israel and the United States. And while today Paris is the center of French Jewish life, this wasn’t always the case. That center was Provence for centuries, thanks to a surprising protector: the Pope. This article covers …

A Sea of Sheep I pressed my back tight against the stone facade of the ancient house on the narrow street where I stood. Around me were dozens of other people doing the same. How, I wondered, was that huge mass of sheep barreling toward us going to fit through? …

According to information from the Mairie in Aix-en-Provence, the long-running saga of this 18th-century square might be resolved soon. The ‘travaux’ should begin quickly and will last nine months. The square dates back to 1745 when the d’Albertas family, who lived in the large building opposite what was then a …

I recently read Le Dit du Mistral, by Olivier Mak-Bouchard, an entertaining book set in Provence. The author, who grew up in the Luberon, weaves fact and legend into the story of two neighbours who discover an ancient relic, and the adventures that follow. Reading the book taught me a …

The Grotte Chauvet 2 is one of the wonders of France. Called “the cave of forgotten dreams,” it is the near-perfect replica of a cave filled with paintings made more than 30,000 years ago—the oldest ever discovered. Not only is the art recreated, but the entire cave is replicated down …