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Arles detailed map and regional map, Google Map. Arles (52,000 residents) is located in the Provence region, and sits on a low hill where the Rhône river divides itself in two arms forming the Camargue delta. The commune is the largest in France, consisting of about 170,000 acres. It is perhaps most famous outside of France for inspiring Van Gogh, the legendary Dutch impressionist, who painted over 200 works of art in Arles including the much loved "Sunflowers' and 'Starry Night Cafe'. |
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Arles, Past and Present Like many cities in Provence, Arles is an ancient metropolis. It was first established as 'Theline' in the 6th century BC by the Greeks. In 535 BC, it was captured by the Celtic Saluvii who renamed it Arelate. The Romans then took control of it in 123 BC and constructed a canal from it all the way to the Mediterranean Sea, which made it an important port town. Arles played a crucial role in later political power-plays, including an attack by Julius Caesar against Pompey in 40 BC. The city reached its peak during the 4th and 5th centuries, when it was frequently used as headquarters for Roman Emperors during military campaigns. Its history from that point forward is far more extensive and diverse in details, but it is its wealth in antiquities and ruins (including the Medieval wall which still surrounds the city, and the ancient arena where bull fights are still fought today) which make Arles a particularly exciting modern city. Today, Arles is the gateway to Camargue, land of the Gypsies and meeting place of the Camargue cowboys. The ferias or bull runs and bull fights are held in this very same arena (12,000 seats) that was the scene of the Roman games in the first century. A Nod to Van GoghVan Gogh settled at Arles in February of 1888, after which he painted more than 200 canvases in 15 months. During this time he sold no pictures, was in poverty, and suffered recurrent nervous crisis with hallucinations and depression. He became enthusiastic for the idea of founding an artists' co-operative at Arles, and towards the end of the year he was joined by Gauguin. But as a result of a quarrel between them, Van Gogh suffered the crisis in which occurred the famous incident when he cut off his left ear (or part of it), an event commemorated in his Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear. In May 1889 he went at his own request into an asylum at St Rémy, near Arles, but continued during the year he spent there a frenzied production of tumultuous pictures such as Starry Night. He did 150 paintings besides drawings in the course of this year. The beauty of Arles inspired Van Gogh, and in return Van Gogh has certainly an 'impression' on Arles. Walking through the city streets, you cannot help but smile as you stumble upon familiar scenes - all of them straight from Van Gogh's canvas. |
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| What to See in Arles The narrow streets of Arles are truly medieval in character, winding between ancient buildings and homes. Unlike other Provencal cities, Arles' main attractions (the Roman Arena and Theater) are nestled directly in the hubbub of daily life rather than scattered on the outskirts of town. Automobile traffic is allowed on many streets, but walking (or renting a bike) is a joy in this charming city - and just about everything is within walking distance. There is a serene park with benches and curved walkways along Blvd des Lices, near the end of the Roman "Theatre Antique". Gigantic cedars offer shade. The World Heritage Organization (UNESCO) recognizes Arles as an excellent example of an ancient city adapted to medieval European civilization. Its main "ratified" monuments are:
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Other Attractions
They are many additional attractions in Arles for complete details visit the Arles tourism office. |
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Events
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