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The Haut-de-Cagnes is the ancient town of Cagnes-sur-mer, perched on a promontory overlooked by the Château Grimaldi. Although on the seafront, the streets rise to an altitude of 91m.
This ancient village retains its narrow streets, ochre facades, vaulted passageways, pebble-paved areas and plants growing outside alongside the houses. In short, Haut-de-Cagnes is full of charm. The visitor is almost in a mountain village, due to the steepness of the streets, and in a Provencal village, due to the way of life.So much so that many artists have spent long periods here. Among the most famous were Renoir, Soutine, Modigliani, Ziem, Klein and others. And today, many artists' studios are located here. It's fair to say that Haut-de-Cagnes has become a Montmartre of the Côte d'Azur.
The Grimaldi castle de Cagnes-sur-mer (14th century) dominates Haut-de-Cagnes. Formerly the property of the great and powerful Grimaldi family of Antibes, the medieval château became a museum in 1946. Or rather, it became a museum complex, housing the Musée de l'Olivier and the Musée méditerranéen d'Art Moderne. It also hosts major art exhibitions.
Place du Château06800 Cagnes-sur-MerOpen 10am-12pm then 2pm-5pm, until 6pm from April to September inclusiveExcept Tuesdays, January 1 and December 25.Official website
It dates from the 14th century and features frescoes depicting the lives of Jesus and Mary.
The little church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul retains a number of frescoes, statues and, in particular, 18th-century paintings.A special feature: the church is built on a sloping relief at the foot of the château. As a result, when entering from the upper street, the entrance is at first-floor gallery level. The church contains the tombs of the Grimaldis of Cagnes. There's also a fine collection of antique santons.
The town of Cagnes is accessible by car, bus and train. But be aware that Haut-de-Cagnes is about a 30-minute walk from the train station. Nothing insurmountable, but you'd better be aware of it if you're arriving with suitcases or backpacks. Ditto for the Renoir museum.
This museum showcases fine collections of jewelry by international designers, dating back to the 1960s. It is complemented by temporary exhibitions, around artists or a theme.
Musée du bijou contemporainHaut-de-Cagnes - place du Château06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer
HoursJuly and August: Wednesday to Monday, 2pm to 6pm, nocturne until 7pm on Fridays during "Jazz at the Château" evenings.April, May, June and September: Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm to 6pm.October to March: Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm to 5pm.Closed Tuesdays and on 25/12 and 01/01.