The year 2025 marks a new celebration of the genius of Paul Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence. Between exhibitions, iconic sites, and immersive experiences, here are five must-do activities to discover the artist and his world.
1. Visit Cézanne’s Studio
Located on the heights of Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne’s studio is a true sanctuary of artistic creation. It is here that the painter produced some of his greatest works. A well-preserved site, the studio still contains its original furniture, brushes, and objects that served as models for his still lifes. An immersive visit transports visitors into the daily life of the Impressionist master and offers insight into his creative process.
Restored for 2025, Cézanne’s studio holds some wonderful surprises—so don’t hesitate to visit!
2. Explore the Jas de Bouffan
Owned by the Cézanne family for more than forty years, the Jas de Bouffan was a place of artistic experimentation for the painter. He painted many scenes of the park, views of the bastide, and light studies on the façades. The guided tour provides an opportunity to learn more about his childhood, his influences, and his early artistic endeavors.
In 2025, the site reopens its doors after a prolonged closure for restoration. This is THE major Cézanne event, as the restoration has led to new discoveries about the site, providing further insights into Cézanne’s work in his family home.
3. Discover the Bibémus quarries
A landmark location for Cézanne enthusiasts, the Bibémus quarries are a true natural setting that inspired many of his paintings. The orange-toned rock formations, the unique light, and the Mediterranean vegetation influenced the painter’s perspective on structure and color. Today, guided tours allow visitors to explore this exceptional site and gain a deeper understanding of its fundamental role in Cézanne’s artistic evolution.
4. Visit the exhibition ‘L’Aix de Cézanne’ at the Hôtel de Boades, Ely Ceppia Foundation
The Hôtel de Boades, home to the Ceppia Foundation (Ely Foundation), will host an exclusive exhibition in 2025 dedicated to Aix-en-Provence during Cézanne’s time. Through period photographs, this exhibition immerses visitors in the atmosphere of the city in the 19th century. A unique way to see Aix through the eyes of the painter and understand how his environment shaped his art.
5. Take the ‘On the Trail of Cézanne’ tour with Secrets d’Ici
For a complete immersion, what could be better than a guided walk through the heart of Aix-en-Provence? This tour, organized by Secrets d’Ici, takes visitors on the trail of Cézanne, discovering the places that marked his life: his school and many others. This dynamic and enriching tour offers a glimpse into the artist’s deep connection with his hometown. The public tour takes place every friday morning during the season, and it can also be privatized!
Bonus 1: Ride the Cézanne Route on an electric bike
For a more immersive experience, take a ride on the Cézanne Route by electric bike, the only road in France classified as a Historic Monument. This route winds around Mount Sainte-Victoire, a major source of inspiration for Cézanne. Between spectacular landscapes, vineyards, and panoramic stops, this ride offers a larger-than-life view of the landscapes that marked the painter.
In 2025, Aix-en-Provence pays tribute to its native son with a rich and varied program. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or simply curious, these activities will offer you a fresh perspective on Cézanne. Ready to dive into the world of the master of color and light?
Bonus 2: Take part in an investigation to recover Cézanne’s stolen paintings!
In this adventure, you must recover the lost paintings of Cézanne, hidden by the thief Luc Panazene, who plans to retrieve and sell them in our time. Join the mission “A Forgotten Theft” and embark on an exciting historical adventure!
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