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Around the 10th century, the settlement became known as Canua, the name probably derived from the word ‘canna’, a reed growing in profusion in the area. The name was applied to a small Ligurian port, and later to the Roman outpost located on Le Suquet hill – the site of an 11th-century lookout tower over the swamps where present-day Cannes has developed. Most of the earliest activity, especially in protecting the settlement from outside forces, occurred on the Lerin Islands and Cannes’ history is, in reality, the history of these islands. In 1035, the name ‘Cannes’ was recorded for the first time in official documents. In spite of his persistent attempts to continue his journey, he was forced to turn back: there’s a popular story that he actually stayed because of the hearty bouillabaisse (a regional fish soup speciality), which he so much enjoyed. His enchantment with the quaint town of Cannes grew to the point that, on returning to England, he sang its praises and convinced many aristocratic and influential friends to follow him on a return visit. The population increase from 4000 inhabitants in 1834 to more than 20,000 by 1896 indicates that his opinion must have had carried some weight. At the end of the 19th century, tourism was already the main economic activity. This became a place where the rich and famous could stroll leisurely, showing off their elegance, while hiding their faces behind parasols. By the 1930s, Cannes had developed into a highly-exclusive and fashionable destination. Today, people still flock to Cannes and the furs and riches are still on parade along La Croisette. The International Film Festival, which originated in 1946, has become an unprecedented success, continuing to attract stars, starlets, and their followers. There is little evidence of Cannes yielding to mass tourism, as it seems to prefer to favour more distinguished and well-heeled guests, maintaining its status as ‘the epitome of chic.’ | |
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