The Provence region is pre-dated by the nation in France and has retained its own identity as a culture that has endured to the current day. Ligures have been living throughout Provence from Neolithic time, Celtics since around 900 BC and Greek immigrants from around 600 BC. In the end, Rome captured Provence, becoming its first Roman province to be outside of Italy. It was an independent state for a period of 879 until 1486. Then , in 1481, the name passed over to Louis XI of France, and Provence was officially incorporated into France in 1486.
Greeks and Romans
The ancient Greeks from Phocaea established the wealthy Mediterranean port of Massilia (now named Marseille) about 600 B.C. In the third century B.C. the Massilians and Romans became allies during a number of battles. They continued to enjoy peace up to the second century B.C. in which the Massilians sought Rome to help defend themselves against the Gauls. The Romans helped them and simultaneously created Massilia an integral component within the Roman Empire.
It was believed that the region known as Provence formed included in the Roman province of Gallia Narbonensis, which encompassed modern-day Provence as well as Languedoc. Because of its importance and closeness to Rome it was often referred to as ‘Provincia’, or ‘the province.’
Following the Roman Empire fell, what did happen to Provence?
After the fall of the Roman Empire, Provence was filled with a range of people who fought to rule the region. In this period, 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 importance 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 the rich history. It’s also the ideal destination for wine and food lovers, with plenty of occasions to taste the best French food and drinks. There are many Mediterranean-influenced dishes in the region. If the weather is warm and sunny, you can dine outside with a an enchanting view of the sea or the surrounding countryside.
Traditional Provencal Cuisine
Chefs from Provence employ traditional French cooking methods to prepare the bounty of spices and seafood that is found along the Mediterranean coast. Mountains are nearby and contribute to the quantity of goat cheese, garlic and olive oil in numerous recipes. There are a variety of Herbes de Provence, a regional herb blend, gives the flavor and spice to any dish.
The Provence Traditional and Specialty Foods
Figs and other essential ingredients are usually served with goat cheese. Banon or Tomme a l’Ancienne are two well-known goat’s milk cheeses from Provence. Pissaladiere is a popular dish in the region; it’s somewhat similar to pizza, however, it’s not served with tomato sauce. The toppings are usually onions, anchovies and olives.
In addition, due to its close proximity to the coastline fresher than fresh seafood is usually served. Alongside the well-known wines from the region Pastis, a anise-flavored cocktail made with ice and water is a popular drink. Berries are a popular dessert during summer, and are often served in many desserts like 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 particularly in spring, when you’ll see seasonal veggies like purple artichokes and asparagus. In the Carpentras marketplace is a favourite for the true French foodies, and the Marseille fishing market can be perfect to get the best fish caught of the day.
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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. Go to the Domaine Bertaud Belieu for a sample of the best Provence roses.