Saint-Paul-de-Vence

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The quality of the area’s light has, over the years, attracted a large number of artists, the greatest being Matisse, Soutine, Chagall, Renoir, Signac, Modigliani and Dufy. Poets and writers have also flocked to the village, enjoying the advantages and privileges of a French lifestyle. With this artistic heritage, it’s not surprising that there are a number of superb museums and art galleries. France’s rich and famous have always regarded Saint Paul de Vence as the perfect place to retire, and it has become a favorite of film directors and actors, including Yves Montand, Lino Ventura, Simone Signoret, Romy Schneider, Roger Moore and Tony Curtis.

There’s art around every corner in Saint Paul de Vence, from the village’s imposing ramparts, towering over the Provencal countryside, to the main fountain in its center, one of the most famous in France. Walk down the street between the Porte Sud and Porte Royale and you’ll see a number of gloriously sculpted stone facades from the 16th to 18th centuries. Follow in the footsteps of Picasso and Matisse and visit the restaurant, where they regularly dined, to see a series of their works. The beauty, location and appeal of Saint Paul de Vence owe much to its history.

The village was founded in the 9th century with the Saint Paulo, the castle of Saint Paul, dominating its surroundings. The keep of this castle has not survived to the present day. The queen then created the right to use the waters of the Malvan. She is said to have had a romantic dalliance with her servant, named Aubépin (meaning hawthorn in English), later stabbing him to death. From that day on, a hawthorn bush bearing red flowers marks the very spot. Ramparts as a means of fortification were built around Saint Paul de Vence in the Renaissance period, but were abandoned, and in 1872 were purchased by the commune’s mayor. They were deemed to be of public interest and are now a listed monument. Rising towards the light, the ramparts cast their generous gaze over the expansive horizon. Today, the growing flower industry surrounds the weekly flower markets in Saint-Paul and are a delight and favorite attraction for residents and tourists alike.

Saint Paul de Vence is a popular location for those wishing to buy a second home in the south of France. Smaller and less populated than some of the more famous neighboring towns, it is nevertheless an inspiring part of the region; stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets of the village and you can’t help but feel the history of the place. Take in the floral delights of the gardens and shady squares, enjoying your pleasures in peace and serenity.

The activities

You really don’t need to visit any museums or attractions in St Paul de Vence to discover its history, as the town itself is historically beautiful in its own way. The place is surrounded by the walls of the medieval fortress that was built in the 1400s. Within the walls nestle cannons that are a reminder of the past. The surrounding walls are also filled with art and statues that are like a canvas, amazing to behold.

La Colombe d’Or
Once a rustic inn, it is now a top-class restaurant and hotel serving delicious cuisine in breathtaking surroundings. The hotel is actually home to works of art by none other than Picasso and Matisse, among others. A stop for a meal is highly recommended, or you can even take a tour of the museum to contemplate the art that adorns the building’s walls.

Maeght Fondation
This museum sits atop the village and is home to some incredible pieces of art. What makes it incredibly interesting is the fact that the artists live and work on the site. If you step outside the museum you’ll witness breathtaking views over the village of St Paul de Vence. The garden outside also has many grandiose sculptures to admire. Admission is €15 and is open all year round. If you’re a lover of Matisse’s artistic work, then this is the museum for you.

Saint-Paul Museum
The Musée Saint-Paul is housed in an authentic 16th-century stone house, which you’ll find once you’ve entered the village gates. The museum showcases contemporary art and also hosts temporary exhibitions by artists who have left their mark on the village’s history. These artists include the likes of Marc Chagall, André Verdet and Jacques Prévert.

La Chapelle Folon
You can admire Jean-Michel Folon’s celebrated design work when you visit this chapel. Discover how the artist forged a strong bond with Saint-Paul over more than thirty years and contemplate his creations of stained glass, sculpture and beautiful art design. Chapelle des Pénitents Blancs was Jean-Michel Folon’s last design project before his death in 2005. It is also the last chapel to have been decorated by an artist.

Local history museum
The local history museum marks the history of St Paul de Vence, where historical figures such as King François I, Vauban and Queen Jeanne are brought together. You’ll admire wax mannequins in period costume made by the Musée Grévin in Paris. This museum is a fun and educational attraction to bring your children to.

The schools

Nice International School – This school is an accredited secular school, Co-Educator and teaches children from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade. The International School of Nice has served the international community of the Côte d’Azur since its inception in 1976. The school is only a 20-minute drive from St Paul de Vence and is well worth the trip for the excellent educational facilities it provides.