The Provence region is pre-dated by the nation that is France and has retained its own identity as a culture that continues to current day. Ligures have been within Provence from Neolithic time, Celtics since around 900 BC and Greek immigrants from around 600 BC. Then, Rome captured Provence, becoming one of the first Roman province that was not part of Italy. It was an independent state for a period of 879 until 1486. In 1481, the name passed into the hands of Louis XI of France, and Provence was officially incorporated into France in 1486.
Greeks and Romans
The ancient Greeks from Phocaea established the prosperous Mediterranean port of Massilia (now named Marseille) in the year 600 B.C. In the third century B.C. the Massilians as well as the Romans joined forces in a number of battles. They remained in an uneasy relationship up to the second century B.C. in which the Massilians sought Rome to help defend themselves against Gauls. The Romans assisted them and simultaneously they made Massilia an integral member in the Roman Empire.
It was believed that the region known as Provence is an integral part of the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis, which encompassed modern-day Provence along with Languedoc. Due to its importance and closeness to Rome the region was known as ‘Provincia’, or ‘the province.’
When the Roman Empire fell, what changed in Provence?
Following the fall of Roman Empire, Provence was filled with a range of people fighting to rule the region. At this time, Visigoths and Ostrogoths, along with Catalans and Moors were in charge of the coastal regions. In 1486 most of Provence was subsumed by France. In a sense of history, Provence predated France and was a major cultural centre prior to when Northern France gained the territorial significance and importance it enjoys now.
The Provence Way of Life
Provence is a great place to live thanks to its stunning landscape, gorgeous climate with a rich culture and historical significance. It’s also a great destination for wine and food enthusiasts, offering a variety of occasions to taste the best French food and drinks. There are many Mediterranean-influenced dishes in the region. When the weather is clear and sunny, you can dine in the shade with a stunning views of the ocean or the surrounding countryside.
Traditional Provencal Cuisine
Chefs from Provence employ traditional French cooking methods to prepare the bounty of seafood and spices that are found along the Mediterranean coast. Mountains are within reach which contributes to the abundant supply of goat cheese, garlic and olive oil in numerous recipes. There are a variety of Herbes de Provence, a local herb blend, adds the flavor and spice to any dish.
Provence’s Special and Traditional Foods
Figs and other essential ingredients are usually served with goat cheese. Banon or Tomme a l’Ancienne are two popular goat’s milk cheeses found in Provence. Pissaladiere is a speciality in the region. It’s somewhat similar to pizza, but without tomato sauce. The toppings include onions, anchovies and olives.
Naturally, due to the proximity of the coast fresher than fresh seafood is often served. Alongside the well-known wines from the region the anise-flavored pastis cocktail made with ice and water is a popular drink. Berries are another dessert during summer, and are often served in many desserts such as tarts as well as homemade ice cream and preserves.
It is the Food Markets of Provence
Each village of Provence has its own market. They’re awash with color and variety especially in springtime, when you’ll see seasonal veggies such as asparagus and purple artichokes. In the Carpentras Market is an absolute popular choice for authentic French foodies, and the Marseille fishing market can be a great place for freshest fish of the day.
Regional Wines from Provence
Provence has been producing wine for more than 2,000 years that go back to the period that of Ancient Greeks in 600 BC. The most well-known wine of the region is rose, however, the region is also known for its red wines. The Domaine Bertaud Belieu for a sample of the best Provence roses.
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