The garden of Albertas is between Marseilles and Aix-en-Provence created in XVIII century. The French garden is strongly influenced by the Italians. It is permanently in bloom with naked statues. Very colorful in gray tones. Flowers could not be seen, well at least my eyes didn’t notice any other flowers. I was not disappointed.
It is rare to see a garden full of male statues. Everywhere I looked they seem to peek out, and then quickly turned their heads in shyness. Of course I looked and focused on each one of them. I was not shy. They stood very still. Oh those Italians thank you for influencing the French! I love their seductive powers.
The garden was created for the Marquis d’Albertas, where he had plans to construct his castle. Though due to the French revolution the castle never came to be. The Marquis Jean-Baptiste d’Albertas was murdered in 1790.
Only the garden remains…
The statues wait unclothed.
We were invited to party held in this Eden like garden. The tables were set up under a white tent. Look at all the flatware right side up. Each person received an olive tree. I found the symbol of peace soothing given the history of this place.
We went early so I could feast on the pleasure of taking photos. The party started with drinks in front of the basin.
In front of the stone basin stood a long table with white linen. Bottles of vintage regional wines where served.
How I wish this were my garden. Of course with the gardeners too.
Isn’t this an amazing entrance gate? Imagine driving under that crown in a coach, lead by six white horses, and a glass of champagne in hand. I was happy as a lark walking underneath it. Thankfully those involved in the French revolution didn’t destory the garden, nor its gate.
Rusty is gold to me.
I wanted to kiss him but he ran too fast!
The tent tops behind the hedge. I felt royal and giddy, I love dress up parties.
France with its rich history and culture gives a farm girl like me a place to live a fantasy. How lucky I feel to see places like this and weave stories in my mind. I wonder how the family felt after creating this garden, realizing that they would not be able to build their castle, having their lives stripped? The French revolution created different dreams.
Why is this man dressed? Why is this man smirking at me? Why is he telling me to stop acting like an American tourist! How dare he stand dressed in this garden! Viva la difference!
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