Life in Aix-en-Provence
Situated in southeastern France, Aix has a cosmopolitan yet intimate environment with a population of 150,000. As the former capital of the Kingdom of Provence and a former Roman spa town, the city features remains from Roman and medieval times. For centuries, Aix has been famous for its art, its many music festivals, its fountains, and its pleasant climate. Since the middle of the 20th century, Aix has experienced an unprecedented demographic and economic expansion. It continues to develop its university and culture with enthusiasm. The renovation works of the historical centre, the rebirth of its lyrical arts festival, the Cité du Livre and the Pavillon Noir, the National Choreographic Center, constitute testimony of its cultural vocation open to the world.
You will encounter a variety of open-air markets and can enjoy wandering down the tree-lined Cours Mirabeau with its many cafés and shops. The beautiful Provençal countryside around the city has been immortalized in many of Cézanne’s paintings. You will be able to visit Marseille and the Côte d’Azur, and location allows you to explore major cities and cultural centers in Europe.
Aix enjoys a mild climate; it is protected from the winds of the North, but is slightly affected by the Mistral (a famous, cool, gusty wind in southeastern France). The average daily temperatures vary between 5-6° Celsius (January) and 21.9° (July). In winter, the sun is almost permanent. The dry summer is pleasant owing to a light perpetual breeze. Autumn can be rainy and winter may be cold.
Official Aix-en-Provence website:
www.Aixenprovencetourism.com (can be followed on Facebook for regular updates on events in Aix)