6 Must-See Squares in Aix, Aix-en-Provence, France

At the heart of French culture — not to mention community and architecture — is the place, or square. Every town, big or small, has its fair share of places that have overseen festivals, markets, and families for centuries. Here are 6 worth finding in Aix-en-Provence.

Less grand than some Aix places, the Place des Martyrs de la Résistance still draws attention for two primary reasons:

1. The world renowned Aix Music Festival is held here each July, and attracts music afficionados from all over the globe.

2. L’Archevêché, the former palace of the archbishops of Aix-en-Provence, built between 1650 and 1730, not only is home to the Music Festival, but part of the monument also houses La Musée des Tapisseries (the Tapestry Museum) with a fabulous collection of tapestries from the 17th and 18th centuries.

Looking for a great Provencal food market? Look no further than Place Richelme. I’ll never forgive my husband for rushing me past the stacks of honey pots, piles of fluorescent green olives, and strawberries to put any American organic farmer to shame. If you miss today’s market, not to worry; there’s one every day of the week. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).