Menton

Menton (Italian, Mentone) is a town and commune in the Alpes-Maritimes département of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur région of France. It has been called the most beautiful town on the French Riviera. Population (1999): 28,812.

History

Menton dates back to the Paleolithic age. Founded by the Count of Ventimiglia as château de Puypin (ca. 1000) and inhabited by Ligurian people, it was owned by the Grimaldi family from 1346 until 1848, before departing from the principality of Monaco and officially becoming French in 1861.

Related Topics:
Paleolithic - Ventimiglia - Grimaldi - 1346 - 1848 - Monaco - 1861

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During the 19th century, Menton because popular because of its warm climate, and many famous people chose to take their vacation in the town.

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Annexed by the Italians, then the Germans during the World War II, Menton was liberated on September 8, 1944. The town was devastated and it was not until the 1960s that the re-building of Menton was concluded. It then regained its appeal as a tourist destination.

Related Topics:
World War II - September 8 - 1944 - 1960s - Tourist

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