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What's New in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur ? The novelties not to be missed in 2022

Mankind has revelled in the beauty of our Mediterranean shores since prehistoric times.

Reconstructed in the heart of Marseille, the replica of the Cosquer Cave, opening in June, is
yet another magnificent testimony to the region’s age-old ties between artists and the sea. Discover all the 2022 novelties that will make the headlines in the Provence-Alpes Côte d’Azur region.

Published on 8 March 2022

COSQUER, THE PREHISTORIC CAVE UNDER THE SEA

An archaeological treasure immersed in a fjord on the coast of Marseille, the Cosquer Cave (33,000 years old) features 500 world-unique cave paintings. Its discovery in 1985 by the diver Henri Cosquer and progressive sinking into the Mediterranean depths makes this site even more compelling. Reconstructed at “La Villa Méditerranée”, near the Mucem, the replica of Conquer Cave promises a wave of emotion. Small autonomous vehicles carry visitors silently into the beating heart of the replica, unveiling depictions of seals and penguins and rare human portrayals including the “killed man” and 65 red and black handprints.

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MODERN & CONTEMPORARY ART HEADS OUTSIDE

France’s leading region for culture in terms of number and variety of museums, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur has seduced artists since the 19th century. Some of the biggest names on the contemporary scene have set up home and created foundations here. The 2nd edition of the Modern & Contemporary Art map lists 63 major collections shown at remarkable, often-unexpected locations, with an increasing number of country venues every year.

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF MARY MAGDALENE

Follow in the footsteps of Saint Mary Magdalene across major Christian sites… An inspired way to visit Provence! From the town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer where Mary came ashore with her fellow travellers Mary Jacobe, Mare Salome and Sarah, to the Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Basilica in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume where she now rests, this holy hike spans 222 km. The ten stages of the pilgrim’s trail are adorned with exceptional landscapes, together with little-known sites promising spiritual repose. Mary Magdalene spent her last 30 years as a hermit in a cave – now restored – at the summit of the Massif de la Sainte-Baume hill range.

Tableau Marie Madeleine En Provence Monténard

A NOSE FOR TRUFFLES, IN PROVENCE

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France’s leading truffle-producing region, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is home to three major professional markets located in Carpentras, Richerenches and Aups. Here’s the latest news:

– Creation of the “Diamant Noir du Vaucluse” (tuber melanosporum) brand. Created by 5 producers, this label guarantees sale of the precious “black diamonds” at their very best: the fresher they are, the more powerful the taste.

– A world first for the white truffle (tuber magnatum). After 20 years of research, the “Pépinières Robin”, based in the Southern Alps, has succeeded in mastering the white truffle growing cycle outside the truffle’s home ground. This ground-breaking achievement opens the way to the development of truffle production in France and the rest of the world.

SERRE-PONCON LAKE, A SEA IN THE MOUNTAINS

With its lakeside beaches, wild coves and exceptional aerological and climatic conditions, Serre-Ponçon lake is a genuine “Sea in the Southern Alps”.

New: Moored in the intimate bay of Foreston, gorgeous houseboats (“toues cabanées”) dressed in wood offer a uniquely relaxing experience on the water. Measuring 25m2 and beautifully appointed, they feature five berths. The boats are solar powered and breakfast is delivered or served on land at a waterfront restaurant.

Just out too: Serre-Ponçon lake is France’s first freshwater site offering electric surfboard and electric foil hire. The eSurfboards are fitted with electric turbines and controlled using a remote control.