Saint Paul de Vence is a commune in the Alpes-Maritimes department of Provence Cote d’Azur in the south of France. In the 1920’s, Saint Paul de Vence was populated by some of the greatest painters of the age including Matisse and film directors such as Clouzot. These celebrities enhanced the public image of Saint Paul to a great extent and ensured that stars’ of later generations established themselves there.
Access
Nice Cote D’Azur airport is not far away and there is also rail travel from Cagnes-sur-Mer that goes to Antibes and Nice. The latter having travel available to Paris via TGV.
History
Founded in the 9th century, the Chateau de Saint Paul dominated the area and still stands though its grandeur has today been slightly diminished due to modernisation. In the early ages, the Counts’ of Provence governed the settlement and under their influence, the commune grew to be an industrious and exclusive little settlement. The town formally became a part of France in 1482 after an accord was reached between Louis XI of France and King René. The commune continued to be as prosperous as ever but the Renaissance period saw the demise in grandiosity of the Chateau which had its battlements sold at auction! These were eventually bought back by the community however.
Sights
La Fondation Maeght is a complex demonstrating some of the finest art both contemporary and modern, some of it painted by artists’ that lived in the area in the early part of the last century.
St Paul’s Museum and the Local History Museum show off the key historical aspects of life in the commune. A short journey by car or train takes you to the city of Nice and the golden beaches of Cannes and Antibes.
St Paul’s Museum and the Local History Museum show off the key historical aspects of life in the commune. A short journey by car or train takes you to the city of Nice and the golden beaches of Cannes and Antibes.
Gastronomy
There is a market that takes place in St Paul every Wednesday morning and has been held weekly from at least the 13th century.
As with all parts of the south of France, seafood is particularly popular as is the consumption of lots of fruit and vegetables. This healthy diet is particularly popular among Brits’ seeking a change of scenery in every respect.
As with all parts of the south of France, seafood is particularly popular as is the consumption of lots of fruit and vegetables. This healthy diet is particularly popular among Brits’ seeking a change of scenery in every respect.
For those who can afford it this is a great place to invest in a property. Consult Sextant properties and they will be able to put you in touch with a local bi-lingual agent who can tell you what is available as well as course as accompanying you on any viewing visits. They will be able to answer all your questions and take you one step nearer that dream property.