Vence

Vence is a commune in the Alpes-Maritimes department in southeastern France. It lies inland from the French Riviera in the Provence-Alpes-Coto d’Azur region, near Nice. The town is perched on a hill above the surrounding countryside, and its historic center is enclosed by remnants of medieval walls.

Historically, the area has early settlement and was fortified in the medieval era, which left a network of lanes, gates, and stone structures in the old town. In the 20th century Vence developed as a cultural destination, attracting artists and writers drawn to the light and landscape of the hinterland behind the coast. Today the town preserves a compact historic core alongside modern services and amenities.

Notable features include the Chapelle du Rosaire, or Chapel of the Rosary, designed by Henri Matisse in the early 1950s. The chapel contains Matisse’s stained-glass windows and related works and remains a major landmark for visitors. The historic center also features narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and remnants of defensive fortifications, while the surrounding area offers scenic views and access to regional hiking routes.

Economy and demographics: Vence is a small town with a resident population in the low thousands and a seasonal influx of visitors. The local economy relies on tourism, services, crafts, and regional markets, with cultural events and monuments contributing to its ongoing appeal.

Other uses: In Spanish, vence is the present-tense form of vencer, meaning “he defeats” or, in contexts related to time, “expires.” The place name Vence is distinct from these linguistic uses.