Menton, Mediterranean coastal town in French Riviera, France
Menton is a coastal town on the French Mediterranean in the Alpes-Maritimes department, near the Italian border. Pastel-colored houses spread along a crescent bay and climb the hillside up to the old quarter.
In the 13th century the town belonged to the counts of Ventimiglia and later came under Monaco's rule. In 1860 residents voted to join France and the town became French territory.
The name Menton comes from the Latin Mons Ottonis and reflects the geography that has long supported citrus cultivation. Today visitors see lemon trees and small gardens throughout the town, which shape daily life for many residents.
The climate is mild and allows outdoor activities or beach visits on over 330 days a year. The old town is reachable on foot through narrow lanes and steps that lead up to the cemetery and the basilica.
Every February the Lemon Festival presents large sculptures and figures made from lemons and oranges from local gardens. The constructions sometimes weigh several tons and are dismantled at the end, with some fruit distributed to visitors.
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