Village de pêcheurs, traditions maritimes et promenades.
After Auguste Renoir moved to the area in the early 20th century, more and more artists and celebrities followed suit. Soon, this formerly quaint village came to be known as "The Montmartre of the Riveria". This trend continued through the 60's, and in 1971, the town formerly known for its fishing heritage became a lively resort town for sea lovers. Visitors can still find reminders of this golden age of art at the magnificent Renoir Museum, or take a trip back in time at the Grimaldi Castle Museum.
Today, Cros-de-Cagnes attracts more tourists than fishermen, but has managed to retain its maritime traditions and customs. The town has been able to mix its historical ambiance with modernity through its protected port, the Fishermen's Chapel with its ocher tones, quaint avenues named for beautiful flowers, the lively St. Pierre's Square with plenty of boulistes (bowlers), the Avenue of Olives, and a plethora of merchants. The Promenade de la Plage (for which the town of Cagnes-sur-Mer was awarded first prize in the National "Concours des Entrées de Ville"), became a resounding success, as a place for discovery, and exceptional entertainment.
Cagnes, a city of sports
Cagnes-sur-Mer is not only a renowned center for artistic success, or hotspot for lovers of sea-life, it can also brag of its huge racetrack, built in a unique setting between the mountains and sea. The city's infrastructure has evolved over the years, and today it is known as a beacon of horse racing!
But this year Cagnois forsake the jockeys momentarily, for cyclist's pedal strokes. Cagnes-sur-Mer is listed for the first time on the Tour de France map as a stage town!