Cours Mirabeau
Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Cours Mirabeau is a wide, tree-lined thoroughfare in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, stretching 440 meters and bordered by magnificent 17th and 18th-century mansions. Originally constructed in the mid-17th century on the site of the old city walls, it was designed as a promenade for carriages and pedestrians, reflecting the city's expansion under Archbishop Michel Mazarin. The avenue divides the city into the old town with its narrow medieval streets and the newer southern districts. Lined with plane trees and decorated by fountains, Cours Mirabeau is a social and cultural hub, hosting famous cafés such as the historic Deux Garçons, once frequented by artists and writers like Paul Cézanne and Ernest Hemingway. This elegant boulevard embodies Aix's blend of history, architecture, and vibrant urban life, making it a must-visit destination.
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Tip: The best time to visit Cours Mirabeau is during the spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant and outdoor cafés are lively. Arriving early in the morning allows for a peaceful stroll before the crowds gather. Visitors are encouraged to explore the surrounding old town and consider purchasing tickets in advance for nearby museums to maximize their experience. While there are no specific discounts for the avenue itself, many cafés and shops offer seasonal promotions.
Interesting facts
- •Cours Mirabeau is 440 meters long and 42 meters wide, making it one of the widest and most spacious avenues in the city.
- •The avenue was built over the old southern city walls, which were demolished to make way for the promenade.
- •The famous brasserie Deux Garçons on Cours Mirabeau was frequented by notable figures such as Paul Cézanne, Émile Zola, and Ernest Hemingway.
- •In 2019, the Deux Garçons building was devastated by a fire that left it as a shell, marking a significant event in the avenue's recent history.
History
Cours Mirabeau was constructed starting in 1649 following a decision by the Parliament of Aix to replace the southern city walls with a grand promenade.
The project was initiated by Archbishop Michel Mazarin as part of a city expansion plan, which also led to the creation of the Mazarin district.
The avenue was initially called "le Cours" and later renamed in 1876 to honor Honoré-Gabriel Riquetti de Mirabeau, a notable representative of Aix during the French Revolution.
Over the centuries, Cours Mirabeau has evolved into a central social and cultural artery of Aix-en-Provence, reflecting its historical growth and urban development.
Place Guide
The Plane Tree Lined Promenade17th century
Cours Mirabeau is famously lined with double rows of plane trees, providing shade and a picturesque setting for leisurely walks and social gatherings.
Historic Mansions16th-18th centuries
Elegant mansions from the 16th to 18th centuries line Cours Mirabeau, showcasing the architectural heritage of Aix-en-Provence's bourgeoisie.
Brasserie Deux Garçons1792
Established in 1792, this iconic café was a cultural hotspot for artists and writers, including Cézanne and Hemingway, until it was severely damaged by fire in 2019.
