Arles is the heart of Provence, a city where history, art, and culture blend seamlessly with the rhythms of daily life. Known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, its connection to Vincent van Gogh, and its deep-rooted traditions, Arles offers visitors an authentic Provençal experience like no other.
Arles: The Most Provençal of Provençal Cities
Arles embodies everything that makes Provence unique. Wandering its charming streets is like stepping into a living museum, where the past meets the present. A local guide can reveal the city’s rich history, from its Roman heritage to its role as an artistic hub, ensuring a deep and immersive experience.
From Julius Caesar to Frank Gehry: The Evolution of Arles
Although Arles predates Julius Caesar, it was under his rule that the city rose to prominence. The Roman influence is still evident today, with monuments like the amphitheater, the cryptoportico, and the Sainte-Trophime cloister. Fast forward to the 19th century, and Arles inspired Vincent van Gogh, who painted some of his most famous works here. Today, the city’s evolution continues with the LUMA Foundation, a striking modern art center designed by architect Frank Gehry.
Sainte-Trophime cloisters in Arles
The Roman Amphitheater and the Tradition of Bullfighting
One of the most iconic landmarks in Arles is its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, which still hosts events today. While concerts and theatrical performances occur here, it remains most famous for its bullfights, a centuries-old tradition that continues to draw crowds. Visitors can experience the passion and spectacle of the Course Camarguaise, a bloodless form of bullfighting unique to the region, or the more traditional Spanish-style Corrida held during major festivals.
The bull fighting ring was quite impressive and is still used today. Bullfighting is very much a part of the culture in Arles. In addition to bullfighting, they also have Bull Fairs where no bulls are hurt. It’s more of a series of games played with the bulls.
Bull Fighting Ring – Cindy Dykman
A retired Matador explaining bullfighting to us.- Cindy Dykman
Van Gogh’s Arles: A Walk Through Art History
Arles will forever be linked to Vincent van Gogh, who spent a prolific period here painting vibrant scenes of daily life. Visitors can walk in the artist’s footsteps, from the famous Café Terrace at Night to the Garden of the Hospital in Arles. The Fondation Vincent van Gogh celebrates his legacy with exhibitions that showcase his influence on contemporary art.
Garden of the Hospital in Arles – Cindy Dykman
New Arles and the LUMA Art Foundation
Arles is not just about the past but also a city of modern artistic innovation. The LUMA Foundation, housed in a striking, shimmering tower by Frank Gehry, is a cultural hub featuring cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions. Visitors can explore its galleries and installations, gaining insight into the evolving artistic landscape of the region.
A Day in La Camargue: Nature’s Wild Beauty
La Camargue is one of France’s oldest and most unique natural parks just south of Arles. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhône River delta, this stunning landscape is home to the world-famous pink flamingos, wild white horses, and over 400 species of birds. Visiting here is an adventure through unspoiled nature, where surprises await at every turn.
A trip to La Camargue typically includes a stop at Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a coastal village with deep Gypsy and religious traditions. A highlight is the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park, where visitors can observe birds in their natural habitat as they wander through marshes, salt ponds, and reed beds.
Pont de Gau Ornithological Park
Tasting Provençal Flavors
No visit to Arles and La Camargue would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. Lunch at a traditional bistro allows visitors to taste regional specialties, including bull meat stew, brandade de morue (salted cod purée), and the freshest seafood Provence offers.
The small charm town of Arles – Cindy Dykman
The restaurant of the retired Matador where memorabilia of his families legacy hung on the walls – Cindy Dykman
Exploring the Salt Marshes of Aigues-Mortes
In the afternoon, the journey continues to Aigues-Mortes, a medieval walled town with a fascinating history. This is also the site of the famous Aigues-Mortes Salt Marshes, an ecological treasure and one of the world’s most important wetlands. A guided tour of the salt pans reveals breathtaking landscapes of pink-hued water and towering salt piles, creating a surreal, almost otherworldly experience.
Salt Marshes of Aigues-Mortes
Arles, Where History and Culture Thrive
Arles is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, artistic legacy, and vibrant traditions. Whether exploring Roman ruins, tracing the steps of Van Gogh, experiencing a thrilling bullfight, or venturing into the wild beauty of La Camargue, a trip to Arles offers a profound and unforgettable journey through time and culture.
A visit to Arles is more than just a trip—it is an immersion into the soul of Provence.
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