“Provence has a treasure, it’s a Colombe d’Or. It has the precious scent of thyme and nostalgia and the golden colour of olive oil and happy days. The Colombe is a part of my life. For me, it’s a place that’s as full of promise as of magnificent memories. The Colombe is indefinable, inimitable…”
Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, St. Paul de Vence emerges as a picturesque gem that has long captivated artists, photographers, and travelers alike. This medieval village, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant art scene, provides a canvas of breathtaking vistas and historical charm.
The story of the Colombe d'Or begins in the early 1920s when it was originally opened as a café-bar called "Chez Robinson" by Paul Roux, a local farmer and innkeeper. Its transformation into the Colombe d'Or (which translates to "Golden Dove") occurred in 1931 when Roux decided to expand the establishment into an inn and restaurant. The name change marked a new chapter for the venue, setting the stage for its future as a gathering place for artists and intellectuals. The Colombe d'Or's proximity to the vibrant artistic community of Saint-Paul-de-Vence quickly made it a favored haunt for artists, many of whom were living or vacationing on the French Riviera. The Roux family, particularly Paul and his wife Baptistine (known as "Titine"), fostered close relationships with these artists. In a unique arrangement that became part of the Colombe d'Or's lore, they accepted paintings and sculptures in lieu of payment for meals and stays. This tradition turned the inn into a living gallery, adorned with works by some of the 20th century's most renowned artists, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Fernand Léger, and Marc Chagall, among others. Over the years, the Colombe d'Or expanded, adding rooms and a swimming pool—reportedly suggested by Picasso himself. Despite these enhancements, the establishment has retained its intimate and welcoming atmosphere, a testament to the Roux family's dedication to preserving the spirit of their unique inn. Every time I visit this amazing place, I am blown away by the beauty of every little detail. I can't get enough of it and will never tire of coming back.
The Fondation Maeght is a remarkable cultural institution nestled in the hills above Saint-Paul-de-Vence in the French Riviera, renowned for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Established in 1964 by Marguerite and Aimé Maeght to honor and house their personal art collection, the foundation has since evolved into one of the most prestigious and significant art venues in Europe. Its creation was also deeply influenced by the couple's relationships with leading artists of the time, such as Joan Miró, Alexander Calder, Fernand Léger, and Georges Braque, whose works form the core of the collection. The architecture, designed by the Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert, harmonizes beautifully with the surrounding landscape, creating a tranquil and inspiring environment for the appreciation of art.
Beyond its stunning collection, the Fondation Maeght is celebrated for its architecture and the integration of art with nature. The building itself is a masterpiece, featuring terraces, gardens, and water features designed to complement the artworks displayed within and around it. The foundation's gardens are adorned with sculptures and installations by renowned artists, offering a unique outdoor gallery experience that merges art, architecture, and the natural beauty of the Riviera. The Fondation Maeght hosts a variety of exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events throughout the year, drawing art enthusiasts from around the world to experience its diverse offerings. Its commitment to promoting art and culture has made it a vital and enduring institution in the international art community.
