Cimiez, one of the neighborhoods of Nice, once was home to artist Henri Matisse. Long before the painter and illustrator moved to this scenic location close to the Mediterranean, the ancient Romans established a capital of their province between the mountains and the sea. At this point in the history of Cimiez Nice, the city was called Cemenelum. For centuries, the Cimiez Monastary has been a center of life in this town. Today's visitors will find many places to encounter this history and enjoy the amenities of vacations to a modern and welcoming city.

As you're strolling down the cobblestone streets, you'll find many places to connect with the history of Cimiez Nice. The northern neighborhood of Nice is home to some amazing things to do and places to explore. While visiting the Cimiez Nice attractions, you'll following in the footsteps of the Romans and great painters. Time in Cimiez will help you make great memories as you enjoy holidays by the sea.

One of the most striking places to connect with the past is the Cimiez Monastery. Founded by the Franciscans in the ninth century, this space has been a center of religious life for more than a millennium. Today, people are welcome to take tours, stroll through the gardens, and step into historic churches. The gardens, which have been a fixture throughout the history of Cimiez Nice, were first planted in the 1500s. In the 1920s, the gardens were restored and redesigned, as they were open to visitors. The citrus trees are complemented by magnolias and olive trees that thrive when the weather is nice. Beyond the gardens, the Cimiez Monastery hosts religious services and features a stunning collection of art painted by Louis and Antoine Bréa.

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Another place to connect with the history of Cimiez Nice is at one of the city's most-visited museums. With exhibits that delve deep into the past, the Musée d'Archéologie chronicles the history from Roman times to the Middle Ages. As you explore the modern and interesting facility, you'll have the chance to see treasures from the past, such as statues and coins, as well as everyday items. You also can climb the observation tower to see some of the actual Roman ruins—part of the amphitheater and the Roman baths are still standing. Detailed models within the museum will illustrate what the Cimiez looked like when it was Cemenelum.

Artist Henri Matisse lived and worked in the historic atmosphere of Cimiez. At first, the artist was spending his winters in Nice before he became a permanent resident. The villa where he lived and worked is now the Matisse Museum. Many of the works he created here are on display in this brightly colored villa. Throughout the year, visitors are welcome to come and take house tours and view the thematic exhibits. A museum dedicated to Marc Chagall and his religious works of art is located nearby.

Every summer, Cimiez hosts a jazz festival, attracting musicians and fans from around the world. One of the most popular events of the summer is held with the Roman ruins and gardens serving as backdrops. Since the inaugural festival in 1948, the event has grown in popularity and prestige, becoming one of the most important music festivals in all of France.