From Library Journal
Jacobs, an art historian and travel writer (A Guide to Provence, Penguin, 1989), continues to demonstrate his knowledge of Provence in this work, the perfect complementary text to Palmer's compelling photography, seen most recently in The Water Garden (Thames and Hudson, 1993). Text and photographs illustrate the belief that Provence's multiple identities are best represented in its villages, which vary greatly in character and architecture, from the fascinating west through the tranquil center to the fortified Italianate east. The photographs of simple churches, fountains, shady squares, and cobbled lanes demand leisurely observation, always justifying the inclusion of each of the more than 30 villages chosen. Information on local festivals and markets, hotels, and restaurants is also included in this beautiful volume. Highly recommended for travel and architecture collections.
William R. Smith, Johns Hopkins Univ. Lib., Baltimore, Md.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
William R. Smith, Johns Hopkins Univ. Lib., Baltimore, Md.
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Midwest Book Review
Provence is a land apart, a territory of outstanding beauty and distinction that has exercised a fascination for outsiders since earliest times. It is the smaller communities that the true Provencal spirit can be found: in brilliant sunlight falling across the terracotta roofs of the hill villages, or in the velvety shade beneath the great plane trees in an ancient square. It is such scenes which are celebrated here in Hugh Palmer's stunning photographs and Michael Jacobs' evocative account of the most beautiful villages of this, the best loved of all French provinces. The variety of the villages of Provence is astounding. The Most Beautiful Villages of Provence is a celebration in 300 color illustrations of that variety, of a beauty and spirit that have continued to entrance outsiders to the present day.
