It is impossible to explore the hinterland of Cannes without visiting Grasse. The city of perfumery is also the historic capital of extensive Mediterranean domain annexed in the XIIIth century by Béranger, Count of Provence. Seat of a provost and a bishop, it was for many years a feudal capital, from which the de Grasse family reigned for centuries over a domain that extended from Antibes to the natural boundary of the Estérel. Many citizens of Grasse have left their mark on the history of France, like Amiral De Grasse who, in the XVIIIth century, played an active part in the American War of Independence. The Museum of Provencal History and Art bears witness to this glorious past and the old town, with its law-courts, its church, its typical squares (notably Place aux Aires) and its terraces of old houses, merits an extended visit. Also worth seeing, of course, are the perfumeries, present in Grasse since 1730 when the corporation was founded, and everything connected with them - the museums, and the exhibitions and salerooms of the oldest firms such as Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard.

Don't forget to visit my Cannes Apartments if you need accommodation on the French Riviera!

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