Tourists flock to Vence to visit Matisse's "masterpiece" the Chapelle du Rosaire, yet this medieval hilltop town has so much more to offer and worthy of a visit on its own accord.
Lignes d'Azur Bus #94 travels from downtown Nice to Vence. The hour long journey begins at the Albert/Verdun stop and ends in the centre of town. From there it is a short walk to the old town proper. Along the way we passed by this lovely park.
Strolling under an arched passage we entered the old town.
Just beyond the fountain is a square with numerous restaurants, including Le Pigeonnier where we had an incredible, memorable lunch. (Photos and details in the previous post entitled "Food, Glorious Food".)
We had a wonderful time exploring Vence and did our best to capture a few memories. We apparently succeeded as I've found it necessary to divide the photographs into two posts. This is part one, beginning with one of those amazing artistic details that are oh, so French.
Unlike Haut-de-Cagnes that has a limited number of art galleries and shops, Vence has many, but pales in comparison to nearby St. Paul de Vence.
I loved the juxtaposition of the colourful church in the background with the restaurant advertisement.
While the exterior is a wonderful combination of pastels, the interior is much more subdued.
Vence has been inhabited for centuries and remnants of its Roman settlers is evident on this wall.
During this time period Vence was known as Vintium. This funeral stone is a dedication from the Roman soldier Lucius Veludius to his beloved wife Vibia Paterna.
Like so many other hill towns near Nice this once includes narrow alleyways that ascent and descend.
Walls join one building to another to create more living space.
The bell tower of Vence Cathedral...
Across the way in the cathedral square is this gorgeous building.
Another arch and passage way...
This man in the next shot is speaking to a friend - who was looking out of a second or even third storey window.
This next photo is one of my favourites as it incorporates everything I admire about a medieval village - narrow, curved alley ways surrounded by all one needs - everything from homes to businesses.
Now and then the alleyways are dead ends.
...while others go beyond the walls and into the more modern part of town.
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| Plants and silver Aladdin's lamp |
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| Definitely Bizarre! |
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| Close up |
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