aixcentric

Aix’s historical Place d’Albertas ought to be a bright little jewel of 18th century architecture but for too long has been spoiled by the dilapidated central section.

For years, there has been talk of a breakthrough with the owners but it has come to nothing despite the efforts of Marie-Pierre Sicard-Desnuelle, the town’s cultural attaché.

Now finally there is unanimous approval for a 2 million euro renovation of the façade and the project has a green-light for completion by 2020.  Good news!

The background to all this is worthy of a film, with generations of one family disagreeing with the people either side (who did renovate), and with each other. In fact they wouldn’t have been out of pocket by much as there are public grants for the patrimoine of centre ville. Happily it would seem that the situation is now unblocked and the fountain and forecourt will be restored as well as the façade.

Work starts in September -fingers crossed!