Les Flâneries au Miroir

When Martigues becomes Venice for a weekend

Every first weekend of September, Martigues transforms into a small Provençal Venice for the Flâneries au Miroir. Over 140 masked and costumed characters, from France and Europe, take over the alleys, quays, and squares of the canal city to offer a living spectacle of rare beauty. Inspired by the Venice Carnival, this unique event in Provence celebrates the historical kinship between the two lakeside cities for nearly twenty years.

Strolls through the three historic districts

The Flâneries unfold over two days across the three historic districts of Martigues. On Saturday morning, the costumed participants take over the Île district for a photographic stroll reserved for photography enthusiasts, a privileged moment where the masked figures pose against the picturesque canal backdrops. In the afternoon, the stroll continues in the Ferrières district, where an Italian market (Les Italiennes) offers Transalpine crafts and gastronomy in the Ferrières Gardens. In the late afternoon, a stage show at the Théâtre de Verdure brings together opera singers and costumed characters in a musical show evoking Italy.

On Sunday, the strolls move to the Jonquières district in the morning, then return to the Île district in the afternoon for a final musical stroll. Throughout the weekend, the atmosphere is filled with Italian music, laughter, and wonder.

An event rooted in tradition and open to Europe

Les Flâneries au Miroir are driven by Venetian masked associations from all over France and Europe, who share a passion for the Venice Carnival and the art of costume. The costumes, often handmade with precious fabrics, embroidery, and painted papier-mâché masks, are true walking works of art. The event is complemented by a photographic exhibition at the Médiathèque Louis Aragon, visible from the week preceding the festival.

Les Italiennes: craft and gastronomic market

In parallel with the Flâneries, the Les Italiennes market sets up in the Jardins de Ferrières during the week preceding the festival. This craft and gastronomic market showcases Italian products and know-how: cured meats, cheeses, fresh pasta, wines, ceramics, and art objects. It complements the Italian atmosphere that takes over Martigues during this period.