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Discover the Charm of Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence

Explore Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence: a delightful blend of history, art, and modernity, offering a unique Provençal experience for every visitor.

Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau, nestled in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, is a delightful blend of history, art, and modernity. This vibrant neighborhood is named after the famous ancient Roman general Sextius and the influential French revolutionary Mirabeau. It offers a unique mix of cultural heritage and contemporary attractions, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking an authentic Provençal experience. Stroll down the elegant Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined avenue filled with bustling cafes, boutiques, and historic buildings. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely coffee at one of the many outdoor terraces while soaking in the lively atmosphere. The area is also home to the stunning Fontaine de la Rotonde, a majestic fountain that serves as a central landmark and a perfect spot for photo opportunities. For art enthusiasts, the Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau does not disappoint. The Granet Museum, located nearby, houses an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures, including works by Cézanne, who was born in Aix-en-Provence. Additionally, the Caumont Centre d'Art offers rotating exhibitions in a beautifully restored 18th-century mansion. History buffs will appreciate the neighborhood's rich past, with its Roman baths and ancient ruins. The Thermes Sextius, a luxurious spa built on the site of Roman thermal baths, provides a unique opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in a setting steeped in history. Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau also boasts a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues offering a taste of local culture. Whether you're dining on traditional Provençal cuisine or enjoying a glass of local wine, the neighborhood's culinary scene is sure to delight. From its historic landmarks and cultural institutions to its lively streets and modern amenities, Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau is a captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Local tips in Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter Cours Mirabeau and capture beautiful photos without the crowds.
  • Don't miss the local markets on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for fresh produce, antiques, and artisanal products.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be uneven and walking is the best way to explore the neighborhood.
  • Book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Granet Museum to avoid long queues.
  • Try the local specialty, Calissons d'Aix, a delicious almond-based candy, available in many shops throughout the area.
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Popular Attractions in Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau

  • Hôtel de Caumont

    Explore the elegance of Hôtel de Caumont, a premier cultural center in Aix-en-Provence, where art and history converge in breathtaking surroundings.

  • Fontaine de la Rotonde

    Discover the grandeur of Fontaine de la Rotonde, a historic fountain in Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by vibrant streets and rich culture.

  • Place des Cardeurs

    Discover the vibrant charm of Place des Cardeurs, a bustling plaza in Aix-en-Provence, where history meets modern life amidst cafés and local culture.

  • Place des Quatre-Dauphins

    Explore the picturesque Place des Quatre-Dauphins in Aix-en-Provence, where history meets vibrant local culture amidst stunning architecture.

  • Fontaine Du Roi René

    Explore the historical Fontaine Du Roi René, a stunning fountain in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, surrounded by vibrant cafés and charming streets.

  • Fontaine Moussue

    Discover the serene beauty of Fontaine Moussue, a historic fountain nestled in the picturesque Aix-en-Provence, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Popular Experiences in Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau

Popular Hotels in Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau

Local Phrases

    • HelloBonjour
      [bon-zhoor]
    • GoodbyeAu revoir
      [oh ruh-vwahr]
    • YesOui
      [wee]
    • NoNon
      [noh]
    • Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
      [seel voo pleh]
    • Thank youMerci
      [mehr-see]
    • Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi
      [ex-koo-zay mwa]
    • How are you?Comment ça va?
      [koh-mohn sah vah]
    • Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
      [byen. ay voo]
    • Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
      [par-lay voo ahn-glay]
    • I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
      [zhuh nuh kohm-prohn pah]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
      [zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh]
    • I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
      [zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand]
    • Cheers!Santé!
      [sahn-tay]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
      [zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
    • Help!Au secours!
      [oh suh-koor]
    • Go away!Allez-vous en!
      [ah-lay voo zahn]
    • Call the Police!Appelez la police!
      [ah-peh-lay lah poh-lees]
    • Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
      [ah-peh-lay uh may-deh-sahn]
    • I'm lostJe suis perdu
      [zhuh swee pair-doo]
    • I'm illJe suis malade
      [zhuh swee mah-lahd]
    • I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
      [zhuh voo-dray zah-shay...]
    • I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
      [zhuh ruh-gard zhust]
    • How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
      [kohn-byen sah koot]
    • That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
      [say troh shair]
    • Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
      [poo-vay voo bay-say luh pree]
    • What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
      [kell er ay-teel]
    • It's one o'clockIl est une heure
      [eel ay ön er]
    • Half past (10)Dix et demie
      [dees ay duh-mee]
    • MorningMatin
      [ma-tan]
    • AfternoonAprès-midi
      [ah-pray mee-dee]
    • EveningSoir
      [swah]
    • YesterdayHier
      [yehr]
    • TodayAujourd'hui
      [oh-zhoor-dwee]
    • TomorrowDemain
      [duh-mahn]
    • 1Un
      [uhn]
    • 2Deux
      [duh]
    • 3Trois
      [twah]
    • 4Quatre
      [kat]
    • 5Cinq
      [sank]
    • 6Six
      [sees]
    • 7Sept
      [set]
    • 8Huit
      [weet]
    • 9Neuf
      [nurf]
    • 10Dix
      [dees]
    • Where's a/the...?Où est...?
      [oo ay...]
    • What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
      [kell ay lah-dress]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
      [poo-vay voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)]
    • When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
      [kahn ay luh proh-shahn (boos)]
    • A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ....)
      [uhn bee-yay (poor)]

History of Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau

  • Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau is named after the Roman consul Sextius Calvinus, who founded the ancient city of Aquae Sextiae in 123 BC. The area was known for its natural hot springs and became a significant settlement, attracting visitors for its therapeutic waters. The ruins of Roman baths and aqueducts still bear witness to this period, highlighting the importance of the location in ancient Roman society.

  • In the 17th century, Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau began to evolve into a vibrant cultural hub. The establishment of the Hôtel de Ville and the expansion of the Place de la Rotonde marked the neighborhood as a focal point for civic life. The area became synonymous with the arts, education, and philosophy, fostering a community that celebrated intellectual pursuits, which was characteristic of Aix-en-Provence during the Enlightenment.

  • The 18th century saw a wave of architectural development in Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau, with the construction of elegant townhouses and public buildings that reflected the prosperity of Aix-en-Provence. The influence of neoclassical architecture is evident in the façades and layout of the streets, contributing to the neighborhood's charm and historical significance.

  • During the French Revolution, Aix-en-Provence experienced significant political and social upheaval. Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau was no exception, with changes in governance and the secularization of religious institutions. The Revolution paved the way for new civic ideals, which were reflected in public spaces and the reorganization of community life in the neighborhood.

  • In the 20th century, Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau adapted to modern needs while striving to preserve its historical character. The area has embraced contemporary urban planning, which respects its rich heritage. Efforts to maintain the architectural integrity and promote local culture have made Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau a vibrant area that continues to attract residents and visitors alike.

Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau Essentials

  • Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau is conveniently located in Aix-en-Provence, easily accessible from other neighborhoods. If you're arriving from the train station, you can take a local bus (Line 7) or enjoy a 20-minute walk through the charming streets. For those coming from the city center, a leisurely stroll will take approximately 15 minutes. Taxi services are also readily available, providing quick access to the Quartier.
  • Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau is a pedestrian-friendly area, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options include local buses, with several stops throughout the neighborhood. Bicycles can be rented from kiosks in the area, allowing for a scenic ride along the picturesque streets. Additionally, taxis and rideshare services operate within the neighborhood for convenience.
  • Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau is generally a safe area for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and keep personal belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas in the Quartier, it's advisable to be cautious in crowded places, particularly during market days or festivals.
  • In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are located within close proximity in Aix-en-Provence. It's highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many have English-speaking staff.
  • Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking. Casual attire is generally accepted, but avoid beachwear outside of beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially around churches. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers. Don’t talk loudly or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Bonjour' and a smile. Avoid overly casual greetings in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties at cafés and restaurants. Don’t engage in excessive drinking or loud behavior in public spaces.
  • To experience Quartier Sextius-Mirabeau like a local, start your day at a traditional café for a leisurely breakfast of croissants and café au lait. Visit the local markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods, and engage with vendors for authentic experiences. Explore the quaint side streets to discover hidden gems, such as small boutiques and art galleries. Don't miss the thermal baths, a nod to the area's Roman heritage, for a relaxing experience.