Provins, located in the Île-de-France region, was a powerful medieval city, a crucial trade hub during the Champagne fairs from the 11th to 13th centuries.

Geographically, Provins sits on a plateau overlooking the Brie region, characterized by fertile agricultural lands and a strategic location between Paris and Troyes.

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, Provins is recognized for its exceptional preservation of a medieval fortified town illustrating the early development of international trading fairs.

The city's population in 2021 was approximately 12,000 inhabitants, reflecting a moderate growth trend compared to its historical peak during the Middle Ages.

Provins' economy today is primarily based on tourism, agriculture (especially roses and cereal crops), and some small-scale manufacturing industries.

The Tour César, a massive 12th-century keep, is one of the city's most prominent landmarks, initially functioning as both a defensive structure and a symbol of comital power.

The tithe barn, known as the Grange aux Dîmes, vividly demonstrates the economic importance of agricultural production and the collection of taxes in the medieval period.

The Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church, started in the 12th century but never fully completed, exhibits a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, reflecting the city's historical evolution.

Provins was a major center for rose cultivation, developing unique varieties such as the "Rose of Provins" known for its medicinal and cosmetic properties since the Middle Ages.

During the Hundred Years' War, Provins was occupied by the English but was eventually retaken by the French, experiencing considerable damage and population decline.

The ramparts of Provins, largely intact, are among the most impressive medieval fortifications in France, providing panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The "Fêtes Médiévales de Provins," an annual medieval festival, attracts thousands of visitors each year, recreating the atmosphere of the Champagne fairs with costumed performers, crafts, and historical reenactments.

Historically, Provins played a crucial role in the defense of the Kingdom of France, serving as a strategically important frontier town against external threats.

The underground passages and vaulted cellars of Provins, known as "souterrains," were used for storage, shelter, and clandestine activities throughout the city's history.

Although not primarily known for political or scientific contributions at the national level, Provins has consistently played a key regional administrative and economic role throughout its history.