Parc Jourdan (Jourdan Park), Aix-en-Provence

Parc Jourdan (Jourdan Park) is a public garden in Aix-en-Provence. The park is located in the immediate vicinity of the historic center. It is one of the largest and certainly the most emblematic parks in the city, and one of Aix residents' favorite places to walk.

It bears the name of Joseph Jourdan who was mayor of Aix-en-Provence from 1919 to 1925 and then from 1929 to 1934. The creation of a municipal park was decided in 1926 by the municipality headed by Eugène Debazac, but it was only in 1929 that the new mayor Joseph Jourdan acquired the land on which it would be built. The development work began in 1932 . They are entrusted to two architects Jacques Couëlle and Peslier. In 1935, the park took the name of "Parc Joseph-Jourdan."

Arranged on two levels, the park mixes different styles. In the lower part, treated in the classic style of French gardens, the entrance is through an imposing gate which opens onto a path lined with lime trees leading to a water mirror. Access to the upper part, converted into a romantic garden , by a monumental double staircase, or by a ramp on the side.

Vast lawns lined with sandy paths provide a resting place for walkers and students. A children's playground is set up in front of a mansion , in which the Oustau de Provenco association is housed , which works to promote the Provençal language.

You can also see in the park a 17th century statue called "Winter", as well as the busts of Frédéric Mistral by Louis Botinelly and Émile Zola by Philippe Solari.

In summer, bleachers can be set up at the junction of the lower and upper parts to allow the organization of outdoor shows.