Discover the center
An educational vocation
A non profit making organisation which complements the State Education system, the “Centre Méditerranéen d’Etudes Françaises” was founded in 1952 by Jean Moreau.
Its idyllic setting, a beautiful wooded and floral park nestling on the hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, along with its antic style amphitheatre imagined and decorated by Jean Cocteau between 1957 and 1963 and now used for cultural events, create a unique atmosphere. Indeed the timeless works of the great poet still have a major influence on the educational methods of the Centre.
Since the creation of the CMEF, almost 280 000 students from all over the world have attended its courses in French Language and Civilisation. Its cultural commitment and pedagogical experience attracts approximately 4 000 youths and 200 teachers each year.
A magical setting, a protected are
Set in a beautiful park overlooking the Mediterranean, the spectacular amphitheatre, three accommodation units, cafeteria, classrooms and reception area make the Centre a refreshing and stimulating place to live and work.
The proximity to nature, the magnificent panorama and the presence of Jean Cocteau’s graphic and architectural poetry in an enclosed and well-kept area fill our participants with a feeling of well-being which aids academic work and international exchanges.
how to reach us
The Centre is located 1 kilometre from the border of the Principality of Monaco, 15 kilometres from Nice and 20 kilometres from the Italian border. Situated approximately 100 metres above sea level, it is a wooded and flowery balcony overhanging the Mediterranean Sea, on the mountainside.
The panoramic view from the “tête de chien” (dog’s head), hillside overlooking Cap d’Ail and Monaco and which was a strategic site for Emperor Augustus’s Roman army, is probably the most beautiful of the French Riviera.
Plane
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport. Direct bus ZOU! N°80 “Airport-Monaco” by motorway (stop: Bautugan, Cap d’Ail). Please click here for directions from the bus stop.
Train
By train, get off at Monaco train station, taxis are available to bring you directly to the Centre.
Car
By car, follow the Route Nationale (D6007) from Nice to Monaco (Moyenne Corniche).
