Exploring Aix-en-Provence

Aug 11, 2010: Exploring Aix-en-Provence

Circle at the top of Cours Mirabeau

Another beautiful and hot Provencal day greeted us. We headed out in the morning to explore more of Aix-en-Provence. Once again we walked to the Tourist Information office, only to learn that the guided tour we wanted to take was only offerred in French today. We did our own walking tour, with Rosa following our tourist guide and map, while she read out interesting tidbits of history to us. Symbols are embedded in the sidewalks of Aix and our tourist guide follows the route of these symbols. Rosa was challenged to keep up with the pace that the six of us were moving.

Next to the former Priory of Knights of Malta (now Le Musee Granet) is the l'Eglise St-Jean de Malte. The fortified Gothic church was built in the 12C. The connection with the Knights of St-Jean reminds us of our visit to Valettta, Malta and seeing St. John's Co-Cathedral, home of the Knights of St-Jean (Jean being French for John).

After lunch back at our apartment, we spent the afternoon in the air conditioned comfort of the Musee Granet (it was over 35C outside at the time). Cezanne lived and painted in Aix-en-Provence. Throughout the city you find historic reminders of Cezanne's time here. The museum has nine Cezanne paintings (none masterpieces), along with Picasso, Leger, Matisse, and an extensive collection of 16th to 20th-century Italian, Flemish, and French paintings.

After the museum we meandered around Aix as we made our way back to our apartment. The space and light were beautiful and we all spent time relaxing and just enjoying our living space. We cooked a leisurely dinner and ate it together, before Rosa and Kevin headed out to explore the night life of Aix-en-Provence.

Statue on Cours Mirabeau