Arles

Arles, in Provence, is a town of art and history listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Roman and Romanesque monuments. The ancient amphitheatre, the Arènes, still hosts Camargue bullfighting events, while the Roman Theatre and the Alyscamps necropolis reflect the town's Gallo-Roman heritage. Arles is also known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who lived here and painted some of his most celebrated works, including Café Terrace at Night and Starry Night Over the Rhône; the Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles pays tribute to this legacy. The Musée départemental Arles antique further explores the town's Roman past. Each summer, Arles comes alive with Les Rencontres d'Arles, an internationally recognised photography festival, while the Luma Tower, designed by Frank Gehry, has become a landmark of contemporary architecture. The Saturday market, one of the largest in Provence, offers local produce, Camargue rice and regional specialities. Located on the edge of the Camargue and the Alpilles, Arles also serves as a gateway for exploring the wetlands, lagoons and wild landscapes of the Rhône delta.