Before you is the Hôtel de Caumont, easily one of the most beautiful private mansions in the city. It was built between 1715 and 1742 by architect George Vallon, at the request of François de Rolland, then President of the French Court of Auditors. It's listed as a historical monument and they've entirely renovated it to restore it to its former glory. The building's classical façade is the epitome of elegance – you definitely can tell this was once home to wealthy aristocrats. Indeed, it was built to show off their power and riches. Like many other buildings in Aix, it too was made of stone from the Bibémus quarries. In 1970, it was turned into a music school, and then into a cultural center in 2013. They host two temporary exhibitions per year, all within the walls of this lavishly decorated building that offers a glimpse into everyday life back in the day. Among the mansion's most famous owners was Pauline, Marchioness of Caumont. Should you enter the building, you'll get to have a taste of the luxurious life she led. Between the charming French formal gardens, the richly decorated lounges, and the ever-changing art exhibitions, there's plenty to see and do here. Now's your chance to put yourself in the shoes of an 18th-century Aix-en-Provence aristocrat! Before you visit, remember to check their website for current exhibitions.