Monument à Alphonse Benoît on l’esplanade Robert Vasse (ancient Place Gambetta).
The statue was created by sculptor Cantini in 1907 and this part of the monument is of a marble nymph that symbolizes the Sorgue River. Called the Venice of Provence—L'Ilse-sur-la Sorgue is a fairytale town built on and around the crystal-clear Sorgue River with scenic canals, moss covered waterwheels, and antique charm flowing through its cobbled streets.
I went to the Sunday market in L’Ilse during the winter and the sunlight highlighted the marble nymph. I took the photo.
The monument is a blend of artistic craftsmanship, industrial history, and civic pride, commemorating a key figure in L’Ilse-sur-la Sorgue’s past. Alphonse Benoît and his brothers Casimir and Pamphile were involved in the silk trade and helped revive the industry in the mid 19th century by importing silk and silk worms from East Asia.
See more images of Provence
Other News...
GIFFORD LANE ART STROLL
The Gifford Lane Art Stroll will return for its 26th year on Sunday, March 1, 2026, from noon to 5 p.m. The free event takes place along Gifford Lane in Coconut Grove, a normally sleepy little residential block near the Kirk Monroe tennis courts between Oak and Day Avenues (3200 block). I’ll be selling my photography prints and photo (notecards) at the Gifford Lane Art Stroll and hope to see you there. Get the details...
THE VILLAGERS BOUTIQUE
Once again, I’ll be selling cards and my photos at the Villagers Boutique on March 7th. The event is open to the public at the Christ the King Lutheran Church from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. More info...
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