At the crossroads of the Mediterranean and northern Europe, Provence has long been a place of passage with an eventful history. Since antiquity, Mediterranean and European civilisations have shaped its landscape and culture.
Provence has brought together influences from southern and northern Europe: Greek and Celtic, Roman and Germanic, Frankish and Arab, followed during the Middle Ages and early modern period by French, Italian and Spanish influences. A popular and literary Provençal culture developed over the centuries. Despite the transformations of the 20th century, it retains a distinctive identity expressed through language, literature, traditions and cultural practices.
A major European travel destination, Provence attracts visitors with its varied landscapes, historical and cultural heritage, climate and way of life.
Explore the history of Provence
25 chapters to discover in chronological order.
Chapter 01Prehistory in Provence
Chapter 02The Chasséen culture in Provence
Chapter 03Greeks and Celts in Provence
Chapter 04Rome conquers Provence
Chapter 05Roman Provence
Chapter 06Christianity in Provence
Chapter 07The barbarian invasions
Chapter 08The early Middle Ages
Chapter 09The counts of Provence
Chapter 10Towns and consulates
Chapter 11Romanesque Provence
Chapter 12The Albigensian Crusade
Chapter 13The Angevin rulers of Provence
Chapter 14The popes in Avignon
Chapter 15Wars and epidemics in the 14th century
Chapter 16Provence's union with France
Chapter 17The Italian Wars in Provence
Chapter 18The Wars of Religion in Provence
Chapter 19Baroque Provence
Chapter 20Provence under Louis XIV
Chapter 21Provence in the 18th century
Chapter 22The French Revolution in Provence
Chapter 23Napoleon in Provence
Chapter 24Royalist and republican Provence
Chapter 25