Lemons of Menton
A special variety of this citrus fruit cultivated in Menton, close to Monaco
The history of the lemon has been intricately linked to that of Menton since the 15th century. The mild Mediterranean climate encouraged a commercial aspect and now Menton is well-known for this vivid yellow fruit.
Several varieties of lemons are grown in the Menton region: Santa Theresa, Villafranca, Eureka. The lemons grown in the Menton region are rich in acid, with a high essential oil content in the peel. The thick albedo (white part of the fruit) holds a great deal of juice in the pulp and offers a fresh, sweet scent.
The Legend of the Menton Lemon
While fleeing from Paradise with Adam, Eve, took one of the “Golden Fruits” with her. After climbing many a mountain and traversing valleys and plains, they came across the Bay of Garavan. The beautiful bay, mild climate and luxurious exotic plants evoked poignant memories of the garden of Eden … Eve planted the lemon in the soil, and from this a little piece of Paradise, Menton was born.
