Last day in the Provence area of France as we are moving tomorrow to Carcassonne, France transitioning to Spain then Portugal.
So up, bright and early, (this is France, 6:3AM is early), and on the road at 8:00 AM, for the quick 25 kilometer trip to Nimes from Uzès.
The Nimes area was inhabited by humans as early as 400BC as it had a reliable water source all year long. The Romans invaded around 50 AD, and went about making Nimes a small version of Rome. This meant bringing in enough water for the city via the Pont-du-Gard, which we visited yesterday.
The Romans were accepted over time in almost all areas they conquered, as the infrastructure they brought with them changed peoples lives. Imagine never seeing running water, than having it in your neighborhood.
The Romans built the Arena in Nimes around 100 AD, it held 20,000 people when full, it was used the same as the coliseum in Rome, shows, gladiators re-enactments of battles etc.. it has the trap doors in the floor same as Rome’s.
It’s had many different lives, even functioning as a church with a village inside it for a period. In the mid 1800’s it was derelict and the task of rebuilding it started. It was in quite bad shape and the rebuilding is still going on today. It looks great however and is used for concerts regularly. Elton John is preforming here in several weeks. That would be awesome😎
Great city to walk, well maintained Roman ruins and a great indoor market. Safe, clean streets, and lots of safe parking. Highly recommend!
Home to pack late this afternoon, than a quick walk and beer to say goodbye to Uzès. What a lovely place. Three hour drive to Carcassonne than walking tour of the walled city, tomorrow PM. Then off to Spain and Barcelona. That means Sangria this weekend 👍😎
Osta lovista
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