Sightseeing in Arles

The Amphithéâter in Arles, France (cc)

Sightseeing in Arles

In Arles, take the time to walk around the town and down to the banks of the Rhône, for this is one of southern France's prettiest small cities, with its fair share of ancient monuments and museums. And if it's your first time in Arles, here are its principal points of visitor interest.

The Amphithéâter

At the top of any visitor's list should be the Arles Amphithéâter. Built around 90 BC, this round arena was the site of gladiatorial contests and animal hunts until the sixth century. It was capable of seating 20,000 spectators. During the barbarian invasions of the Dark Ages and the warring period of the Middle Ages, Arlesians sheltered within its walls. At one time it held two chapels and more than 200 houses. Today it is used for concerts and drama, sports events and, during the season, Course Camarguaise and bull fights. In between events, it can be visited. The amphitheater can be reached on Rond Point des Arènes.

Théâtre Antique

The semicircular Théâtre Antique, completed a few decades before the birth of Christ, was largely hidden by chapels and houses until the mid-19th century. When these were demolished, a marble-paved orchestra section, the area that housed theater machinery and some of the seats were revealed. The Théâtre Antique seats 10,000 in 33 tiers. Open year-round, it is a romantic setting for festival performances in the summer. The theater is located on Rue Porte de Laure.

Place de la République

Place de la République in the center of the city is almost a catalog of Arles’ historic periods and architectural styles. The Roman period is represented by an obelisque rescued from the Roman Circus; St. Trophime’s Cathedral, built between the 12th and 15th centuries, features a magnificent Romanesque portal; City Hall and St. Anne’s Church both date from the Baroque period of the 17th century; the 18th-century Archbishop’s Palace runs along one side of the square and the former post office, built by noted 19th-century architect Auguste Véran, runs along another. Buy an ice cream from one of the vendors and sit near the square’s central fountain to enjoy it.

The Langlois Bridge

The Langlois Bridge is a little wooden drawbridge that Van Gogh named after the bridge guard was said to have reminded him of Holland. If you are familiar with Van Gogh's work, you will recognize it in an instant. Head south from the center of Arles on the D35 toward Port Saint Louis du Rhône. After about four km/2½ miles, look for very small signs for the Pont Van Gogh, which will be to the east.

Last updated March 11, 2012

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Camargue, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, France

Posted in France | Camargue

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