Postcard from Provence

Alas, I am not in France at the moment, but my family is there, traveling to Aix-en-Provence.

So, really, they are sending me postcards this time! And I’m sharing them with you.

One of the most well-known Aix delicacies are calissons, small petal-shaped candies made from almond and fruit paste. Traditionally, local melons are used in the filling, but there are also fig, citrus, and other varieties. The paste is then sealed with a thin, crisp layer of icing sugar.

According to local legend, the creation of calissons dates back to the 15th century and the court of French King Rene. Roy Rene’s young second wife, Queen Jeanne de Laval, is said to have been sad and distant until she was served with some sweets created in her honor, prompting a smile. The courier responded by saying: “Di calin soun” or “They are sweet.” Needless to say, the sweet treats helped the King seduce his young wife.