Language study abroadAix-en-Provence
Language course in Aix-en-Provence:
THE PEARL OF THE SOUTH OF FRANCE
Between the steep southern extremities of the French Alps and the sunny coast of the Midi lie the pastel-coloured houses of Aix-en-Provence, the pearl of the south of France. Once the metropolis at the foot of the Ste Victoire mastiff, the city has an aristocratic flair in the Cours Mirabeau Avenue of plane trees. Numerous fountains, with their perpetual splash and proud patrician houses with artistically decorated façades complete the romantic image of the city and endow it with a unique charm.
QUALITY OF LIFE
Aix-en-Provence, which today has 140 000 inhabitants, is a lively city with the most important and famous university in the south of France, at which some 40 000 students are registered. After only a few hours, visitors are aware that “Aix” is international. Art and culture are not only high profile during the festival, for the city is the adopted home for many artists who draw their inspiration from the attractive, picturesque surroundings. One small detail: most French people, if asked about the city in which they would most like to live, would say Aix-en-Provence. Why? Aix delivers concentrated joie de vivre- guaranteed!
HISTORICAL CITY WITH CHARACTER
“Aix”, as the city is lovingly known, was founded by the Roman army in the early years of the occupation of southern France in 102 B.C. The town grew quickly and became the provincial capital in the 3rd century. During the Roman era, the city was already a popular spa with warm springs, as well as the centre of the olive, wine and almond cultivation. During the Middle Ages, French and Spanish Counts fought over the desirable country. Even after it was absorbed into France in 1481, the city retained its proud independence and on numerous occasions successfully the might of the state.
