Aix-en-Provence is noted as a “City of Fountains” and three of the best are on Le Cours Mirabeau. This beautiful tree-lined street, built in 1649 for horse-drawn coaches, links the Mazarin quarter to the south with the old commercial town to the north. Elegant 17th and 18th century buildings with wrought iron balconies line the street, which was once where the city’s social life took place.
When you arrive in this town, it’s clear to see that Van Gogh lived here for a while, although they didn’t show him much appreciation at the time. It’s different today, of course. All over town, street stalls try to capitalize on their famous past resident, selling tablecloths, aprons, etc. with sunflower prints on them, probably the subject of his paintings for which he’s best known.
This 2,000 year old World Heritage Roman aqueduct is amazing to visit. The bridge is on three levels and was built before the Christian era so the aqueduct bringing water to Nimes could cross the Gard river. On the way to the Pont, look out for three ancient olive trees on the right side of the track, one of which is 1,000 years old. Brilliant blue skies provided a great backdrop to this majestic monument making it a photographer’s dream.
