The Peyra Fountain adorns the Porte du Peyra
There are five city gates leading into Vence’s medieval district and its sights. The oldest and most impressive is the Porte de Peyra, which dates from the 14th century. Through this city gate you enter the charming square Place de Peyra.
Idyllic location at Place du Peyra
It is the city’s most idyllic place and here stands the beautiful urn-shaped fountain, which dates from 1822. It is probably the most photographed motif in Vence.
The first Peyra fountain dates from 1439 and was built by Ribellini. The present Peyra fountain, or the high fountain as it is also called, was created in 1822 by the architect Étienne Goby.
The Foux spring provides the good water
The water comes from the Foux spring, is drinkable and is wonderfully refreshing. This spring has supplied water to Vence since Roman times.
Until 1886, the Peyra Fountain – “the high” and the Fountain Basse – the “low fountain” on Place Antony Mars, were the only two fountains that supplied the inhabitants of Vence with drinking water.
Vence has more than 20 fountains
Today there are more than 20 fountains located around the city and every year in the month of May the fountains are celebrated with flower decorations in what is called “Fête des fontaines”
By Tommy Sverre – 2022
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Hiking Hike Vence – Baou des Blancs
The hike from the center of Vence to the top of Baou des Blancs is a stunningly beautiful and varied trip all year round. When the summit is reached, the reward is a fabulous view.
Hiking Hike to Saint-Paul de Vence
This hike to Saint-Paul de Vence from the center of Vence is neither too long nor too strenuous, but rather beautiful and cozy.
Churches & chapels Saint Elisabeth chapel
Saint Elisabeth chapel in Vence impresses with its rediscovered fresco paintings by Giovanni Canavesio, and its history dates back to the 14th century.
Advertisement Ranch El Bronco
Horseback riding and hiking from the top of the Col de Vence – for both beginners and experienced.
Markets The markets in Vence
A visit to the markets in Vence is a must if you really want to feel the character and authenticity of the city.
Art The Museum of Vence
The Musée de Vence / Fondation Émile Hugues is situated in the heart of the historic city center and is among the very popular sights on the Côte d’Azur.
Churches & chapels Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-la-Nativité
Here in the middle of the old medieval town of Vence you will find France’s smallest cathedral. Usually one expects cathedrals to be large and impressive…
Viewpoints Viewpoint – F. Moutet
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Wash-houses The Wash-house at Avenue des Poilus
The wash-houses have their own history, which dates from the 19th century and testifies to the challenges of the …
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Saint-Paul de Vence La Petite Cave – a wine cottage in a unique 14th-century cave
If you like wine in exceptional surroundings, La Petite Cave in St. Paul’s cave is a must visit. The cave dates back to the 14th century.
Saint-Paul de Vence The Collegial Church
The 17th century marked the golden age of the church in Saint-Paul de Vence. Here, in 1666 the church was raised to the rank of Collegial Church by the bishop Antoine Godeau of Vence
Saint-Paul de Vence The Cemetery of Saint-Paul de Vence
The cemetery of Saint-Paul de Vence is one of the most visited cemeteries on the Côte d’Azur – here rests several celebrities – including Chagall, Escoffier & Maeght.
Saint-Paul de Vence Célestin Freinet school
The famous schoolteacher and educator Célestin Freinet (1896-1966) taught in Saint-Paul de Vence between 1928 and 1933.
Saint-Paul de Vence The Folon chapel – The White Penitents
Experience the admirable Folon Chapel, a design work of Jean-Michel Folon and learn more about an artist who had strong ties to Saint-Paul de Vence for over thirty years.
Saint-Paul de Vence Le Fromager
Le Fromager in Saint-Paul de Vence offers a nice little stop where you can enjoy different kinds of sandwiches, dried fruits and drinks…
Saint-Paul de Vence La Colombe d’Or
La Colombe d’Or is one of the world’s most famous restaurants, visited by the most famous people in the world.
Saint-Paul de Vence The Maeght Fondation art museum
The Maeght Fondation art museum welcomes more than 100,000 visitors in a unique architectural building designed by Josep Lluis Sert.
