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In the extension of
Lubéron a limestone massif rises up. From afar, it gives the
impression of being a mountain. But as you approach it, it gives way
to a sculptured chain of blue rocks, known as the Alpilles.
In the heart of Interior Provence, the foothills of the Alps, "Les
Alpilles", offer natural scenery of exceptional beauty. A succession
of long-estabilished villages, each differing from its neighbours,
from the little jewel of Eygalieres, perched on the hilltops at what
is reputedly the site of Saint-Remy-de-Provence to the magnificent
village of Les Baux, the region is a treasure trove of wonderful
cultural monuments set in idylic countryside.
Places like Glanum, one of the biggest archaeological sites in South
France, with a museum located in the former residence of the Marquis
de Sade family; is a must. Other places to go are:
* The Arc de Triomphe (from 20 A.D)
* The Van Gogh Centre Art
* The town of Arles and its Arena
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Saint-Remy-de-Provence
has an exceptional historical and cultural heritage. You will be
enchanted by the beauty of the monuments and the living traditions.
St-RĂ©my is associated with Vincent van Gogh: He committed himself to
an asylum here in 1889 after cutting off his left ear. His "cell"
was later occupied by an interned German during World War I --
Albert Schweitzer. Between moods of despair, van Gogh painted such
works as Olive Trees and Cypresses. Come to sleepy St-RĂ©my today not
only for its memories and sights, but for an experience of Provençal
small-town living that you won't find in Aix or Avignon. It's a
market town of considerable charm and attracts the occasional
celebrity who "hides out" here away from the hordes. |
