If you journey to the edge of the Camargue National Park in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of Southern France, you’ll find the beautiful and ancient city of Arles. Known for a slew of stunning features, including several UNESCO world heritage Roman sites, Arles has much to offer the historical and culturally minded traveller.
You may be wondering why your South of France surveyor has seen fit to mention this city specifically in today’s article. However, with the city of Arles having just been named in a Rough Guide list of eight must city cities from around the world, it seemed like a prudent time to take a quick look at this amazing location.
Architecture
As we’ve already mentioned, the city is home to many architectural remnants of the Roman empire. These structures include a stunning 12,000 capacity amphitheatre, a theatre capable of seating 10,000 patrons, and Roman baths. Every year in August, residents and visitors can witness this era of history come to life in a festival which features theatre performances, costumes, films, traditional Roman food, and even real chariots.
If more contemporary designs are to your tastes, from 2020 you’ll be able to visit the stunning new LUMA Arts Centre. The building is a modern twisted mass of aluminium which stretches into the sky and, when completed, will host exhibitions of the best and most highly regarded modern art from the region and abroad.
You’ll also find stunning boutique hotels and bistros in the town where you can relax and enjoy some of the region’s fine food and drink.
Van Gough
Beautiful architecture aside, Arles is also famous for its association with one of the world’s most famous post-impressionist painters, Vincent Willem van Gough. The Dutch artist moved to Arles in 1888, seeking refuge from his various maladies.
He immediately fell in love with the city, describing it as seeming like something from another world.
During his time in Arles, Van Gough completed 200 paintings, and more than 100 drawings and watercolours, and the period is considered one of the most prolific in his life.
Famous works such as The Yellow House and sunflowers were directly taken from the city and its surrounding countryside and these inspirational real-life locations can still be viewed to this day.
Arles offers a walking tour of the locations which inspired this legendary artist, so you can appreciate them for yourself.
Final Thoughts
We would highly recommend taking Rough Guide’s advice and visiting this amazing city for yourself. Whether you enjoy art, architecture, or both, you’ll be rather at home in this breath-taking location.
You may find you’re so taken with Arles, and the South of France in general, you wish to consider moving permanently and purchase property in the region. In this case you’ll need a qualified and experienced South of France surveyor to help you make the most of your investment in this lovely part of the world.
Please get in touch today for more information.