NIMES
(44 minutes from Salon de Provence)
Both medieval and contemporary, Nîmes has several monuments that cannot be ignored. Thanks to the development of its heritage (historical, cultural and architectural), Nîmes has received the label of Ville d'Art et d'Histoire.
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The arenas of Nîmes
One of the best-preserved amphitheatres in the world
In the great cities of the Roman Empire, the arenas or the amphitheatre were the venue for
great shows.
A symbol of a city's fame, the amphitheatre attracted large crowds. The one in
Nîmes', along with that of Arles and the Colliseum in Rome, is among the best preserved in the ancient world.
After having served as a setting for Roman games, these places now host bullfights
during the féria.
The bullring is open to the public and an audio-guided tour allows visitors to discover
the architecture of the site and its history. A multimedia space is dedicated to gladiators and bullfighting , and puzzle games are available for children.
At the end of April, the Great Roman Games are organised, a great historical re-enactment.
More info: click here
The Square House
Although it is rectangular in shape, the Maison Carrée has borne this name since the 16th century. At that time a rectangle was referred to as a long square. This is why this 2000 year old Roman temple is still referred to in this way.
The only completely preserved temple in the ancient world, the Maison Carrée is 26 metres long, 15 metres wide and 17 metres high. The ceiling of the pronaos dates from the beginning of the 19th century; the present door was made in 1824.
Further information...
The Pont du Gard
The Margne Tower
The Roman Enclosure
The Fountain Gardens