GRASSE

town, southeastern France, Alpes-Maritimes dpartement, Provence-Alpes-Cte-d'Azur rgion, northwest of Cannes, west-southwest of Nice. Situated at an elevation of 1,100-1,250 feet (330-380 m) on a slope in a natural amphitheatre in the lower Alps, it is a winter resort and is also the centre of the French perfume industry. Roses, jasmine, and other flowers, as well as bitter orange blossom, from which the perfumes are distilled, are cultivated in the vicinity. The town is also known for its candied fruit. In the 12th century Grasse was a miniature republic, but in 1227 it was taken by Raymond Brenger, count of Provence, and from 1244 until 1790 was an episcopal see. Its Fragonard Museum, named after the 18th-century French court painter, who was born there, contains three paintings and several drawings by the master. Queen Victoria of Great Britain (reigned 1837-1901) passed several winters at Grasse. Pop. (1990) 42,077.