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Visiting Vincent in St Remy

 Going to St Remy was on my bucket list and I finally got there in December 2023. I was based in Avignon and took a bus from Avignon Station to St Remy- it took about an hour at minimum cost.


The main purpose of my visit was to see the Asylum where Vincent stayed after the 'ear incident' in Arles. The bus stopped in the centre of St Remy, but the visitor's centre was closed. I found my way to the asylum via google maps which was fairly accurate.

To get to St Paul De Mausole, you have to walk up a slight incline for about 10 minutes. Along the way are signposts with Vincent paintings. They are not really related to the locations where the paintings were created, but if you are familiar with Vincent's paintings, you can see them and him everywhere.


An example of the signposts on the Vincent trail


The sign at the entrance.




The people in charge of the asylum, ( It is still used as a health facility) know the reason for their many visitors. This lovely sculpture- The sunflower thief, stands at the entrance.



The entrance. 


I've just noticed the shadow on this picture- is it Vincent?





Inside there is a recreation of Vincent's room and on the desk is a dried sunflower.



You can freely move around this area of the asylum. Here is the courtyard, almost exactly as it was in Vincent's day.

Another view of the courtyard.


The garden outside the building. Vincent sat here. 


The countryside around St Remy is so familiar if you have seen Vincent's paintings. I was completely mesmerised by the Alpilles.




So familiar




And of course the Cypress trees are everywhere




Finally, as I left St Paul de Mausole to wander around St Remy, I suddenly realised I was looking at the church spire from Starry Night. 


It was such a wonderful poignant experience and I could see Vincent everywhere. I left feeling sad, but inspired by his genius. The French people of  St Remy and St Paul de Mausole have created a tasteful and moving memorial to Vincent, go and visit it if you can.














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