Exploring the Rich Heritage of Arles, France with a Family of Five
Nestled in the picturesque Provence region of France lies the charming town of Arles, steeped in history and brimming with cultural significance. From its ancient Roman structures to its medieval landmarks, Arles offers visitors a captivating journey through time. With only a half a day visit, we got to see quite a bit. Get a Monument Pass. It will save you money and... kids are free, so this day was fairly inexpensive. Here is what we saw-
Alyscamps: A Walk Through Ancient Necropolis
Our first stop in Arles was Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis that served as a burial ground for over 1,500 years. Originally a pagan burial site, Alyscamps gained prominence in the early Christian era when it became a popular burial ground for Christian martyrs. Its significance grew as pilgrims flocked to visit the tombs of revered saints, contributing to its status as a major pilgrimage site during the Middle Ages.
Fun fact #1: the burial site was raided (I can’t remember the time period) for the crypts themselves. Farmers used them for troughs for their animals.
Fun fact #2: Vincent Van Gogh came here to paint the lane in Alyscamps. You can see a reproduction of it at the site.
Have fun wandering among the ancient sarcophagi and marvel at the enduring legacy of Arles' early Christian community, especially the chapel in the back. It is spectacular.
Amphitheatre: Witness to Gladiatorial Spectacles
Our next stop in Arles was the Roman amphitheater, one of the best-preserved examples of its kind in the world. Built in the 1st century AD, the amphitheater once hosted spectacular gladiatorial contests, chariot races, and other grand spectacles that entertained the masses. With its towering arches and imposing facade, the amphitheater stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire. Today, it continues to serve as a venue for cultural events and concerts, keeping alive the spirit of ancient entertainment.
Saint Trophime: A Jewel of Romanesque Architecture
The Saint Trophime Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, was quite spectacular. Dedicated to Saint Trophime, the first bishop of Arles, the cathedral was constructed over several centuries, with its oldest sections dating back to the 12th century. Its striking facade is adorned with intricate sculptures depicting biblical scenes and saints, while its interior boasts a stunning array of frescoes, tapestries, and relics. A visit to Saint Trophime Cathedral offers a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic heritage of medieval Arles. Outside in the square, people gather around the fountain. Definitely spend some time here.
Cryptoportiques: Hidden Beneath the Streets
Next to the cathedral, under the hotel is an underground cryptoportiques, a series of subterranean galleries that once supported the ancient Roman forum above. These remarkable structures served as a foundation for public buildings and provided storage space for merchants during Roman times. Today, visitors can explore these hidden passageways and marvel at the ingenuity of Roman engineering. The cryptoportiques offer a unique glimpse into daily life in ancient Arles and are a testament to the city's enduring legacy. It is dark down there and wet during March, so Watch Out for puddles. I stepped full force into one. Yea! Insert sarcasm here.
This is all we had time for and we only scratched the surface of this remarkable town's rich heritage. I recommend staying for a full day or longer to just wander the out town and visit a few shops and restaurants.