Anecdotes and Stories of a Village
The Church of the Assumption
A proud architectural treasure stands in this picturesque village. Built on the ruins of a medieval church, its neoclassical style elegance makes it a historical monument that catches everyone's eye. Reconstructed in the mid-18th century, its yellow façade, with its unique oeil-de-boeuf window, is strikingly beautiful and creates a surprising contrast with the baroque interior. The bell tower, erected in the 19th century, is square and has two levels. The blue color of the clock face represents the Virgin Mary. Upon entering the church, you will be enchanted by an almost theatrical atmosphere. Once, the church had a bell tower adorned with glazed tiles, similar to its neighboring churches in Nice and La Turbie. However, during a stormy night in 1846, the iron cross that surmounted the bell tower attracted lightning, causing significant damage. Repairs were made, but lightning struck again, shattering the dome into pieces. Since then, the dome has been replaced by a flat roof surrounded by a balustrade.
The Postern Gate
Located at the entrance of the historic village, it offers an iconic passage to enter the walls of Èze. This double fortified gate, built in the 14th century by the Counts of Savoy, bears witness to their efforts to strengthen the defenses of the medieval citadel. During the Middle Ages, the Poterne was the only access to the village, ensuring its protection. Take a close look, a photo on this page was taken nearby. Its perspective is the key to your quest. Solve the riddle on the back of this card.
The Gypsy Woman
According to legend, a Bohemian woman lived on Rue du Bournou in the 1920s. She predicted the future of wealthy clients who visited Monte-Carlo. Attracting a glamorous and influential clientele, she amassed a fortune thanks to her wealthy clients, captivated by her mysterious predictions and enchanting charm. Around her house, one can see mysterious shapes and shades. The legend tells that if we could pass through them, the future would be revealed to us.
The Fountain
The Place du Planet in Èze houses the historic Riquier family, an influential family in the region. This picturesque square is adorned with a magnificent Italian fountain installed here by the composer Barlow in 1930. Animals, especially the village cats, have developed the habit of coming here to quench their thirst, so who knows? You might even encounter our goat! Take this opportunity to take a first break, fill your bottle, it will certainly help you continue your journey.
The Golden Goat Hotel
According to legend, the Golden Goat accompanied lost travelers in the Niçoise mountains towards the village of Èze. Among them, one had a unique destiny: the violinist Zatlo Balokovic. Guided by a goat with golden fur, this erudite musician acquired and restored a series of buildings in 1923, giving birth to the mysterious and magnificent place called "La Chèvre d'Or" (The Golden Goat). After World War II, Balokovic returned to Yugoslavia and handed over La Chèvre d'Or to Robert Wolf, an American businessman, who first turned it into a prestigious restaurant and later into a luxury hotel. According to its leaders, the hotel takes its name from its first owner, an unusual farmer. She sold her goats' milk at the Nice market, but what was astonishing was her secret hiding place for her earnings: gold coins concealed behind a brick in a wall. During the renovation of the establishment, the dormant treasure was discovered after years, giving the hotel an elegant and evocative name linked to this unique story.
Château Eza
In 1920, Prince Guillaume of Sweden visited the village and was charmed by its spirit and tranquility, which perfectly suited his talents as a writer. He decided to acquire a group of residences that he named Eza. Today, this ensemble has become the Château Eza hotel, whose name directly refers to the royal title of the prince who once resided there. Feel free to visit and enjoy a drink on one of the most beautiful terraces on the French Riviera. Not far from the hotel's entrance, two eyes stand motionless, seemingly counting passers-by.
