The Mazarin Quarter of Aix-en-Provence dates from 1646 when the town’s ramparts were extended to the south to incorporate lands owned by the archbishop of Aix and the Order of Saint-Jean-de-Malte. In contrast to the winding and often labyrinth-like streets in the center of town, this is a thoughtfully planned neighborhood in which each street was constructed in an organized grid pattern. It’s here where you’ll find the inspiring Eglise et Paroisse Saint-Jean-de-Malte. Construction was completed on the main building in the 13th-century on property first occupied by the Order of Malta, a religious order dedicated to assisting those in need that still exists today.
14th-Century Parish Bell Tower
An imposing 220ft. bell tower was added in the 14th-century that dominates it’s facade. In the wake of the French Revolution, most of the internal furnishings and treasures were plundered and it was converted into a military storehouse. Saint-Jean-de-Malte returned to a parish church in the 19th-century and is currently presided over by a brotherhood of apostolic monks. It’s definitely worth a stop during your stay to Aix-en-Provence.