Travel Guide Aix-En-Provence

Historical capital of Provence, Aix-en-Provence has kept all its splendor and shines in many ways for its heritage, its famous calissons, its festivals and its cultural events. Founded on the heights, Aix bears a Roman name, Aquae Sextiae(aquae for the thermal waters and Sextiae for the consul Sextius). The hot water baths are known since the ^1st century B.C., and today, the Provencal way of life can be found in the alleys, squares and, of course, the many fountains of Aix. Want to visit the city? Here is what a tourist guide to Aix-en-Provence will suggest. In the heart of the city, the Cours Mirabeau gives an idea of the richness of Aix. Almost 500 meters long, it is the link between the Mazarin district, to the south, and the old commercial city, to the north. It is also one of the most frequented and lively places in Aix. Enjoy its shaded terraces, the facades of its houses and its four fountains, harmoniously distributed from one end to the other. Further on, stroll through the pedestrian streets around the Richelme square, then the town hall. Then go back up to the Saint-Sauveur cathedral, not hesitating to get lost in the numerous alleys. When you get close to the Archbishop's Palace, don't miss the various private mansions on rue Gaston-de-Sapora. In terms of museums, this city of art is not to be outdone: above all, don't miss the Paul Cézanne museum, the painter inspired by Aix as much as he himself marked the city.