Aix-en-Provence: The City of a Thousand Fountains 🚗💦✨

Cézanne's Hometown— The ancient Provençal city of Aix-en-Provence is like an open-air history book, where the laid-back charm of Southern France comes alive. The Story Behind the Name Originally called Aquae Sextiae ("Waters of Sextius") by the Romans, the name evolved into "Aix", with "en-Provence" officially added in 1932. 💧 Since antiquity, life here has revolved around natural springs, earning it the poetic nickname "City of a Thousand Fountains"—each one whispering tales of Provence’s golden past. Iconic Fountains of Aix ⛲ Fontaine des Prêcheurs A grand fountain crowned with an obelisk, blending history and elegance. ⛲ Fontaine de la Banette Nestled at the northern end of Rue de la Banette, it features a plaque honoring Cézanne, crafted under Renoir’s guidance. ⛲ Place des Quatre Dauphins (Four Dolphins Fountain) 🐬 A Baroque jewel from 1667, adored by 17th-century nobility. ⛲ Fontaine de la Rotonde 🌹 The heart of Aix, built in 1860, crowned with three goddesses symbolizing Justice, Trade/Agriculture, and the Arts. Cours Mirabeau: France’s Most Beautiful Avenue? 📜 Peter Mayle (author of A Year in Provence) once wrote: "We had no interest in sightseeing... except Aix. Cours Mirabeau is the finest street in France. " 🌳 Since 1650, this tree-lined boulevard has divided the city: South side: Neat, grid-like streets. North side: A charming maze of winding alleys. ☕ Les Deux Garçons Café (est. 1792) A historic haunt for artists and writers—Cézanne and Zola once debated here! 💛 Stroll under the plane trees, sip espresso at a sun-dappled terrace, and breathe in the lavender-scented air... Aix’s magic is even more enchanting than Cézanne’s paintings. 🎨 Paul Cézanne Statue Standing proudly near Fontaine de la Rotonde, honoring Aix’s most famous son. #Provence #AixEnProvence #FrenchRiviera #TravelFrance #HiddenGems