I tilted my chin up and let the sunshine warm my face. Day after day in Provence brought crystal blue skies and fresh breezes that kept the sweltering summer heat at bay. I had come to southern France for its sunshine, but not for the same reason as most sun worshipers. What drew me were … Read more
Between the Middle Ages and the French Revolution, Cavaillon, France, was home to a significant Jewish population. While Jewish communities in other parts of Europe were suffering horrific pogroms, the Jews of Provence were luckier. The Popes of Avignon, recognizing that Jesus was a Jew, decreed that they be treated with tolerance. However, because Jews … Read more
Though it was tiny, I really liked this pretty little cloister inside the Cathedral in Cavaillon, France. Unlike other cloisters, which are meticulously trimmed and neat, this one was a riot of unkempt wildflowers. Somehow, that added to its charm, as did the beam of sunlight that fell on its cross, turning it to burnished … Read more
This sleepy street scene in Cavaillon, France might make you think nothing much happens in this village. In fact, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Situated in the heart of Provence, Cavaillon hosts two popular weekly markets. Additionally, with its location at the foot of the Luberon Mountains, it is the gateway for people … Read more
Oppede-le-Vieux is one the lesser known but very beautiful hilltop towns scattered across Provence, France. These towns emerged during medieval times, when it was common for bands of raiders to sweep through the plains, pillaging and killing everything in their wake. The locals fled to high ground, building encircling walls that provided protection against the … Read more
