The Aesthetic Pleasures of Nice, France, part 2….

Within walking distance of the Musée Matisse is the elegant Neo~Byzantine Francescian Monestary, Monastere Notre Dame de Cimiez, its historic cemetery {Where Henri Matisse and his wife are buried} and formal Italian style gardens that overlook the city of Nice. Look at this beautiful verdant tapestry and the intricate stone mosaic walkway. Such a serene contrast to the busy city below.

Them gum drop shaped trees make a whimsical background to the many beds, each one was lush with greens and just a touch of color.  They featured a center row of spiky artichoke plants surrounded by flowers in the same color family, one bed had pale yellow and white border flowers, this one has orange and bright yellow flowers; the silvery Dusty Miller’s pull the whole look together.

These gardens were formerly the vegetable garden for the monks and it is said that the mesclun salad originated here. The monks would mix seeds together, creating lou mesclun, they would carry these seeds to share them with the poor in handled baskets called espourtoulas.

Could you imagine the beautiful wedding portraits you could take beneath this rose arbor, or better yet, the festive {and fragrant} luncheon you could enjoy???

Le Monastére de Cimiez is a grand and graceful statement at the top of the Cimiez, I love the look of the warm, elegant architecture in contrast to the blue sky.

In addition to the gardens there is an intricate cemetery, Cimetiere du Monastere de Cimiez on the grounds. French cemeteries tend to be very ornate, most graves are built of marble above the ground, many embellished with tiles or ceramic flowers. The mosileiums are each unique in design, making for a fascinating wander in this labyrinth. This cemetery feels especially mysterious and historic with the addition of the tombs honoring the Franciscan monks who have passed over the years. This is also the last resting place of Henri  and Amelie Matisse.

Just 1.5 kilometers down the hill from this cultural nucleus, past the grand Belle Epoque Excelsior Regina Palace {which is now a private apartment building}  is the Musée Marc Chagall. Chagall’s warm and vibrant colors tell a spiritual story of life. This massive window depicts a universe where all live in peace.

The artist was actually involved in the formation of the museum and created pieces specifically for the space. Here are some of my favorites….

 

Some other artists are featured as well, I absolutely love these amazing sconces by artist and Landscape Designer Henri Olivier, made of charred olive wood and backlit with blue neon.

Aren’t they spectacular?

Well, after viewing all of this we had worked up quite an appetite. Next post, I’ll take you to a beautifully delicious meal at a Niçoise classique.