Nice, the capital of the French Riviera, is a major
seaport and one of France's most important tourist centres. As the fifth
most populous city in France, it enjoys a privileged position on the
Mediterranean coast, nestled on the Baie des Anges (Bay of Angels) and
sheltered by surrounding hills, which give it a pleasant, mild climate. The
city has a rich history that dates back to around 350 BCE, when it was
founded by Greek mariners from Marseille who named it Nikaia, in honour of
the goddess of victory, Nike . Later conquered by the Romans, the area of
Cimiez still contains impressive ruins from that era. For centuries, Nice
was under the protection of the Counts of Savoy until it was ceded to France
in 1860 through the Treaty of Turin. Today, Nice is characterized by a blend
of historical and modern attractions. The city is divided by the Paillon
River, with the narrow, winding streets of the Old Town to the east and the
modern city to the west . The most iconic landmark is the Promenade des
Anglais, a famous 4-kilometre seaside boulevard built by the English
community in the 19th century, which is a favourite spot for locals and
visitors alike. Nice is also a major cultural hub, boasting the
second-largest number of museums in France after Paris . These include the
Musée Matisse, the Musée Marc Chagall, and the Musée d'Art Moderne et d'Art
Contemporain (MAMAC), reflecting the city's enduring appeal to artists
inspired by its unique light. The city's economy is driven largely by
tourism, bolstered by its excellent transport links, including the
second-busiest airport in France . However, it also serves as a commercial
and administrative centre, with nearby technology parks like Sophia
Antipolis playing a key role in its modern economic development.