 LOCALE: DISCOVERING VENCE page 2
Return to Le Clemenceau. However, turn left towards the Porte du Faubourg ou Pontis and turn right into the Rue du Marché, a very narrow, winding street which is alive with activity. Here you'll discover a treasure- trove of tantalising treats: aromatic bakeries, (not so aromatic) fishmongers, wine cellars, fresh flowers, fruit, vegetables, spices and herbs.
The other end of the Rue du Marché opens out onto the Place du Peyra, the site of the early Roman forum, where there is a lovely eighteenth century fountain. Here you can taste the cool, crystal waters of La Foux. An old marble plaque just inside the arch lists the mineral composition of the water.
Turn right out of the Porte du Peyra and you'll find an enormous ash tree (frêne) which lends its name to the Place. This tree is said to have been planted in 1538 to commemorate the visit of François 1 and Pope Paul 111. Behind the tree, and forming part of the ramparts is the Château de Villeneuve, which houses an art gallery, Foundation Emile Hugues.
At the end of the Place du Frêne is a stone orientation table, from which you can see the Baou des Blancs and Baou des Noirs towering over the town, and the prominent Baou de St. Jeannet further down the line of hills. Turn back towards the Porte du Peyra from outside the walls and you will soon find yourself in the Place du Grand Jardin. Go to Locale page 3 »»
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