France - Provence: Olives, Oil And Magic Places (3/151)

France - Provence: Olives, Oil And Magic Places (3/151)

The Alpilles lie in the heart of Provence, between Avignon, Cavaillon and Arles. The low but steep limestone formations of this range are dominated by bizarre forms and shapes. Rich olive trees, some of the oldest in France, thrive on the hillsides and in the valleys of the Alpilles. The biggest city in the Alpilles, Les-Baux-des-Provence, is a picturesque town built high on a rocky spire, which is almost deserted at night today. Only during the day, when the tourists come, do the medieval alleys come alive. To this very day, the castle of Les Baux belongs to the Grimaldi family of Monaco. Several olive oil presses operate in Vallée-des-Baux and in Maussane, making some of the best olive oil in the world. The wood of the olive tree is popular with Provençal craftsman and artists as a raw material. The most famous resident of Salon-de-Provence was Nostradamus, whose prophecies continue to fascinate fans of the fantastic. His house is open to the public. Many visitors also make a detour to the Saint Paul monastery on the outskirts of St. Remy-de-Provence, where Vincent Van Gogh spent his last days.