With its grand staircase, medieval arches and 17th century wings enclosing an almost square space, the courtyard of the former archbishop’s palace in Aix is a jewel in the architectural crown of Aix-en-Provence and one of the locations that most memorably evokes the past of its historic centre. It was made into a theatre in 1948 and is now the venue most closely associated with the Festival.

It was last refurbished in 1998, when the facades were restored and work was undertaken to create a special relationship between stage and audience. Every summer, the Théâtre de l’Archevêché exudes a magical atmosphere, which François Mauriac described as reminiscent of “Don Juan among the stars”.