Nice is at the very essence of France's Provençal spirit. It's been the favourite destination for artists like Matisse and Chagall, as well as the aristocracy for ages. The Old Town (or Vieux Nice) hosts most of the city's main attractions and historical sites. Untill 1920s, it was enjoying some kind of an isolation thanks to the River Paillon. Even after the river was covered up and the main bridge demolished, the city's oldest quarter retains its independent character, with old ladies still chatting in the local dialect called Niçois. Out of the maze of Vieux Nice, the real action is taking place on the Promenade des Anglais, with its public and private beaches, besides volleyball courts and ice-cream parlors. This coastal promenade has actually made Nice the second biggest city of France, as well as one of its main touristic destinations, with a sunny climate enjoyable throughout the year.