Things to Do in Arles

When it was built in 90AD, while Arles was a thriving Roman city, the awe-inspiring Amphitheatre d'Arles also known as the Arènes d’Arles was a place for entertainment which included chariot races, bloody hand-to-hand battles, gladiator fights and animal hunts which took place here until the end of 5th century. Today, it remains one of the earliest Roman Monuments and spreads across a huge area as proof of the city’s transition from an ancient city to a medieval European one.

During the middle ages the arena changed into a fortress. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its alluring structures of Roman charm and an air of archaic beauty beyond compare. The oval amphitheatre has a seating space for 20,000 people and is surrounded by open terraces, acriss-cross of arcades, a system of galleries, corridors – all exhibiting the splendour of earlier times.

The amphitheatre is bustling with spectators during April and mid-September, when the Feria d’Arles is organised. The famed festival is held every year and is centres around bull activities. The matadors project their skill and valour required to fight a bull and is received by an exuberant crowd. Plays and concerts too are held regularly in the Amphitheatre d'Arles.

The rich history of the small city of Arles has been remarkably recorded with great care in this famous museum. Built in 1995, the modern and lovely cobalt-blue building of the museum is a beauty in itself. It stands proudly at the edge of what used to be the Roman Chariot Racing Track.

• The Musee de l'Arles et de la Provence Antique is home to a number of striking Roman sculptures and a large collection of other antiquities.
• The museum also houses a huge compilation of Christian and Pagan art. This compilation includes absolutely stunning mosaics.
• A major attraction at the museum these days is the recently discovered ancient boat, known as the Arles Rhone 3, which is known to be about 2000 years old.
• The museum provides a wonderful view of the Chariot Track and the shape of the museum.

The museum can be visited per your choice in two ways:

• Chronologically, running from Prehistory, 2500 B.C. situated at the entrance stretching to the end of Antiquity, 6th century towards the exit.
• Thematically, corresponding to the characteristics of the museum's various collections such as daily life, trade, the economy, embellishments. 

Preserving history with great charm seems to be the style of Musee de l'Arles et de la Provence Antique which the elegant and spacious building seems to follow through and through.

Once, a great fortress, the Theatre Antique d’Arles or the Ancient Theatre of Arles is now a gorgeous historical site. The grand structure possesses immense power to mesmerise human minds. Built in 12 AD by Emperor Augustus, the Theatre shares a rich history and is a world heritage site.

Even though the Theatre was initially many storeys high, today it is still a grand site exuding with Roman charm. Every brick and stone exhibits beauty and elegance of the ancient times. The cavea, or the amphitheatre is huge and at the time could accommodate 10,000 spectators. Other monumental pillars and columns are etched with intricate carvings and the theatre on the whole is a great architectural exhibit.

The construction of the theatre dates back to 1st century BC. Today, in the ancient roman settings, outdoor plays and concerts are still held during the summers. To soak up history, beauty and fantasies, the Theatre is the perfect place to visit. 

Situated along the shorelines of Camargue, the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue is one of the most protected areas covering 820 sq.kms. Designated in 1970, it is located on the Mediterranean, in the Rhone delta, mainly between the two branches of the river and stretches over Arles, Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône and the town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Green, beautiful and a home to over 120 species of birds, the Nature Park is a good starting point for reconnecting with nature.

The scenic beauty of Carmague Nature Park is unsurpassed and the exquisite shoreline is bound to take your breath away. The viewing stands at the park let you catch glimpses of the most beautiful birds with lovely flamingos being the most common. You will find the following at the nature park 

• A ranch where friendly Gardians, pretty much like cowboys, will tell you all about the Carmague cattle and show you their prized bulls along with a manade of Carmague horses.
• A roadside museum is situated at the old barnhouse Rousty Bridge of Carmague which gives a background the flora and fauna in a very fun and interactive way. The museum stresses upon exhibiting the relationship of man with nature specific to the delta.
• A territorial observatory with an aim to monitor the ecological, economic and social evolution of the territory in time. 

The Camargue National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With beautiful courtyards and lovely gardens blooming with flowers and bursting with colours, the Espace Van Gogh, is a gorgeous place. Formerly a hospital, it is very famous for this was where the legendary artist, Vincent Van Gogh was taken after he cut off his own ear.

The building has an aura of peace and calm. The Espace Van Gogh also happens to be an inspiration for two of the artist’s 200 paintings – one depicting the gorgeous gardens named as Garden of the Hospital in Arles and the other of the ward within named as Ward of the Hospital in Arles. He brought down the memories of his time in the hospital on canvas and they live on today. Throughout the years, attempts have been made to maintain the same look of the garden as it had in Van Gogh’s painting of 1889.

With a history dating back to the 16th century, the Espace Van Gogh is a part of cultural and university centre. The courtyards are surrounded on all four sides by buildings. The first and second floor of this place is home to a circulation gallery. As a part of the centre, it includes a media library, the public records, the International College of the Literary Translation (C.I.T.L.), the university radio and a few shops.

The architecture of Espace Van Gogh is well preserved, specially the historic features such as the Roman Esplanade. It is a lovely place to visit for art enthusiasts. Occasionally, the space also hosts art exhibitions. 

Senses get heightened and imaginations run wild while strolling down the dim, dark passages of the cryptoportiques. Even then, the wonders of ancient roman architecture do not forget to amaze and intrigue you with its brilliance and sophistication.

It is still unknown to serve what purpose the cryptoportiques or the cryptoporticus of Arles were really constructed. But the sheltered, underground passages, which seem to go on for miles are a delight to explore. Dating back to 1st century BC, the shape of the cryptoportiques is that of a ‘U’ constructed with three double, parallel tunnels. The stonework carries the marks of the Mason’s and signify that it was built by the Greeks. It is believed that it was used as quarters for public slaves.

Constructed under the Place du Forum, the cryptoportiques too is UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must visit in order to return to the roman era and understand it better. 

A short distance from Arles, lies the Alyscamps and its ancient cemetery. Quiet and lovely, the Alyscamps projects the intricacies of Roman architecture in its tombs. The Alyscamps remained the main burial ground for the people of Arles for about 1500 years and continued to be even after the city was Christianised in the 4th century. 

St. Trophimus, possibly the first bishop of Arles, was buried here. It is believed that the Christ himself attended the ceremony and left the imprint of his knee on a sarcophagus lid. Like many attractions of Arles, the Alyscamps too became a site for Vincent Van Gogh’s artwork where he worked along with Paul Gauguin. He produced a pair of paintings of the Alyscamps named as the Les Alyscamps.

The Alyscamps is unique its charm. The calm solitude of the place provides an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of life. In 1981, it was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place is fascinating and it is easy to see why it was a wonder in the medieval world. The large number of sarcophagi and a semi-ruined church in its premises makes your realise how rich the then era was. 

A cathedral dating back to 11th century, Eglise St-Trophime is a masterpiece by the Romans at the great exhibition called the world. The St. Trophime , in all its wonderful details and elegance, was built on the site of an 8th century church dedicated to St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr.

Magnificent, astonishing, brilliant are just a few words that will cross your mind on seeing the Eglise St-Trophime. It’s well preserved 12th century portal is the major attraction and is considered as the finest achievement of the southern Romanesque style. With intricate carvings depicting chained souls being dragged off to hell on the right side, and saints delivering justice on the left, the theme of the portal is the Last Judgement. Full length statues of the saints stand on either side of the portal with St. Trophime and St. Stephen at prominent positions. The inside of the Eglise St-Trophime is minimal but home to fantastically symmetrical designs and artworks in light pastel shades.

One of the great attractions is the cloisters of St-Trophime. These cloisters represent two distinct architectural styles thanks to the two different centuries they were constructed in. The north and east galleries of cloisters are 12th century Romanesque architecture while the south and west galleries are late – 14th century Gothic. The pillars of the cloisters are a thing of beauty, carved with fine sculptures of Biblical scenes.

A rich history, magnificence and with the power to transform you back to a several hundred years make the cathedral a wonderful site to spend an afternoon learning. In 1981 the Eglise and Cloistre St-Trophime were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built between the 10th and the 18th centuries, the Abbey of St. Peter in Montmajour is a Benedictine Monastery, originally constructed on an island 5 kilometres to the north of Arles. The well preserved architecture exudes of ancient charm and allure. The abbey also happens to be an inspiration for the many artworks of the great artist Vincent Van Gogh. 

The Abbey of Montmajour consists of the following six sections

• The hermitage: Romanesque arches and columns make up the hermitage which dates back to the 11th century and includes St. Peter’s chapel.
• The cloister: Decorated with carvings of real and mythological beasts, the cloister of the abbey was built to the south of the church. Associated with each gallery of the cloister is a different story from history.
• The chapel of Holy Cross: Exuding simplicity, dignity and tranquillity, the chapel was built to protect the most important relic of the abbey – a piece of the True Cross.
• The Monastery of St. Peter: It was built in the 14th century.
• The Tower of Abbot Pons de l'Orme: Built in 1369 to protect the abbey from armies of French soldiers who were left unpaid after the defeat of France during the Hundred Years Wars.
• The Maurist monastery: Built in the 18th century, today the ruins of the monastery remain as a result of demolitions during the French Revolution. 

The Abbey of Montmajour shares an important piece of history and is a must visit in Arles.

Housed in the former Grand Priory of the Order of Malta, the Musée Réattu is a fascinating art museum of Arles. The splendid museum has a large collection of striking sculptures, breathtakingly beautiful photographs and captivating painting by the famous French painter, Jacques Réattu and Picasso.

The location of the museum itself is a fascination. The old 15th century building of the Grand Priory looks as a part of the museum’s collection. Established in 1868, the museum largely revolves around Réattu’s works and the collections include Contemporary Reattu, Pioneer Reattu and Reattu Monument. Throughout the years, various people have contributed in the evolution of art in this museum. The museum now consists of 

• Great examples of medieval art, contemporary art and sound art.
• Twelve exhibition rooms that soulfully exhibit about 800 striking artworks.
• A collection of photographs which is a boggling number of 4000 and each holds a prominence which can’t be stolen. 

The museum constantly holds exhibitions and the Revoir Reattu is the most recent. For art lovers, this museum is a treasure trove full of surprises and lovely place for appreciation.

Standing idle in a barren land, the sight of Moulin de Daudet sets free the poet within. The windmill has a history dating back to the 1814. It was functional for about a century before it lost its purpose by 1915. 20 years post that, the association named ‘Alphonse Daudet’s Friends’ decided to restore it and establish a museum dedicated to the famous writer. Not much remains to see here with the place being closed down since 2012. The lonely building is a symbol representing Alphonse Daudet and his works. It is said, that years ago, he used to sit by this very place and write. The result of these writings was ‘Les Lettres de mon Moulin’ which translates to ‘Letters from my windmill’ in English. Originally the windmill went by the name of Ribet or St. Pierre Moulin.

Even with no museum and no functioning mill to see, many people visit Moulin de Daudet either to pay their homage to the legendary writer, or to simply enjoy solitude in the calm of this lovely place. 

Originally, the Place du Forum was the site of a Roman forum and the centre of the social and political life in Arles. With a part of the original building still standing, intelligently preserved with the help of a new building, the Forum Square is now a popular tourist attraction and a place amalgamated with ancient and modern charm. 

The sophistication of Roman architecture can be observed in the Place du Forum building as well. The streets today, bustle with excitement and vigour, thanks to a number of cafes that offer scrumptious delights to titillate the taste buds. A major attraction presently at the Place du Forum is the Tambourin Cafe. While most buildings inspired Van Gogh paintings, this cafe is unique for it was inspired from one of Van Gogh’s paintings. The bright cafe is a reconstruction of the one depicted in Van Gogh’s Cafe Terrace.

Emanating with energy and allure, the Place du Forum is a must visit for a relaxed afternoon in the city of Arles. 

An open square which basks daily in the sun’s lasting glow, the Place de la Republique is literally the heart of Arles. With its Romanesque architecture, it still stands with a youthful grace and appeal. The Place de la Republique also known as the Republic Square, lies amidst various other historical charms of Arles.

A bright, sunny afternoon is the best time to enjoy this place. With a few bistros, cafes and a lot of people from all corners of the globe it is simply a delight to be here. Here at the Place de la Republique you will find

• Obelisque d'Arles, a 4th century Roman obelisk, erected right in the centre of the Square.
• A magnificent fountain, along which you can enjoy a lovely lunch.
• St. Anne’s Chapel to the left of the square.
• The St. Trophime’s Church
• The infamous cloisters or passageways exhibiting great Roman workmanship.

With blue skies as a wonderful background to this historic place, an afternoon at Place de la Republique is enchanting.

The Pont de Langlois or the Langlois Bridge was constructed in the first half of the 19th century as one of the crossings over the Arles to Bouc Canal. In 1930, the original drawbridge was reinforced by concrete. But sadly, just 14 years later, it was blown up by the Germans along with all other bridges at the canal.

The Pont de Langlois is also famous as the Pont de Van Gogh. The city of Arles has been pretty enamoured by the great artists and for good reason. Like many places in Arles, the Pont de Langlois too has been an inspiration to Vincent Van Gogh, who produced 9 artworks – 4 oil paintings, one watercolour, and 4 drawings –of the site in 1888. After its destruction in 1944, the bridge was reconstructed to recognize the works of the artist.

Today, a lot of art enthusiasts visit the drawbridge to pay their respects to the painter. It is a wonderful location to spend an evening appreciating Van Gogh’s art and inspiration.  

Not much remains to be seen at this monument which is said to have existed since the 4th century. Then, the Baths of Constantin was a private place for the royalty to visit. Now, it is long abandoned from serving its original purpose. Even then, the great Roman structure is worth a visit.

The bath was formerly constructed for Emperor Constantin’s private use. The bath proves to the modern age just how high-tech ancient sciences were. The stone and brick ruins are interesting testaments to Roman architecture. Also known as the North bath, they have been well-preserved and consist the following 

• A caladrium ,which was like a spa, heated with the help of a suspended floor heating system known as a hypocaust.
• Three swimming pools or solia.
• Two of the swimming pools are rectangular while the third is semi-circular.
• The solia also enabled lovely, tepid baths and dry baths.

The ruins of this place are greatly fascinating. They make you imagine the life and style with which the emperors lived. The realisation of the ancient technology makes your jaw drop in wonder. There is much to learn in every piece that history has to offer.