The history of Aix-en-Provence

The history of Aix-en-Provence goes back to Antiquity, a period during which the city was born under the Roman movements which have confederated to Massilia, Marseille today.In the second century BC, the colony asked a little support from Rome to ensure the protection of its people against the attacks of the barbarians who threatened their lives and their activities.Knowing the difficulties of the Romans, Gaius Sextius Calvinus, the famous consul of that time often came to the rescue and suggested to build Aquae Sextiae also known as the waters of Sextius, now the main site of Aix-en-Provence .Originally the city was a military base that developed into a prosperous and flourishing village that will help defend the commercial routes between Massilia and Rome.With powerful and effective strategies, the victory is announced at close range on the Teutons, which occasioned the success of the Romans in the year 102 BC. As a testimony to the importance of the city, walls were erected as well as an antique theater to pay tribute to Aix-en-Provence.It was in the 11th century that the city passed under the jurisdiction of the Counts of Provence. It has even become a place of residence that prides itself on Avignon or Arles. It was later transformed into a great capital of Provence under the dynasty of King René.This sovereign, ideally respected by his subjects, was a powerful monarch who brought about an undeniable golden age for the city, which was a great success in all areas: commerce and economy, construction and masonry, etc.

And in this way, Aix-en-Provence acquired all its renown, many artists have taken advantage of this fast - growin in order to be noticed like the intellectuals of the court of King René not forgetting the famous painter Paul Cézanne which was strongly inspired by its city and region.