As ancient as its Roman monuments and as fresh as the flowers in its markets, the Provence region of Southern France has a palpably layered history set against a truly swoon-worthy landscape that spans a varied corner of the country from the Southern Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. In between lie Camargue marshes, Luberon lavender fields, vineyards, medieval towns, and the bustling port city of Marseille.
Provence Glory, from luxury publisher Assouline, is a 312-page visual ode to the region with appropriately rapturous accompanying text by François Simon. In more than 200 vibrant photos and illustrations, the book celebrates the unique mix of climate and culture that has inspired generations of artists, including Cézanne, van Gogh, and Matisse.
For travelers, the tome should supply plenty of dream-board fodder and maybe even some spiritual solace. After all, as the author and Provençal lexicographer Frédéric Mistral put it, "When the Good Lord begins to doubt the world, he remembers that he created Provence."
Here are a few of our favorite images from the book.
Pictured above: a farmhouse near Gordes
