Once we sorted out the vehicle and repacked our bags we were off. Our fist destination was Arles where we visited the coliseum. One thing I have not mentioned is the fact that the weather has been spectacular with lots of sunshine and temperatures in the high 70’s to low 80’s. Lucky us!
Arles is home of an ancient Roman Coliseum (Le Arènes) that was built around 90 AD. Now it is used for concerts and other events. It has been continually under reconstruction over past 100 years and the project of maintenance and repair are ongoing today. We enjoyed lunch with the coliseum as our backdrop. as our backdrop.
After lunch we walked around the town but since it was Sunday most of the shops were closed. However we were able to stop by the Van Gogh contemporary museum and pose for a photo in front of the modern “hose” fountain.
Then we visited the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation where I could feel the presence of my mother June who was a huge lover of his works. It was an honor to stand in the very garden in which he painted.
Of course I also had time to pick up a Van Gogh souvenir or two. The pillow cover on the left is coming home with me.
On the way out of town I took a quick photo of the Luma Foundation metallic building. It only opened last year and is a new venue in Arles for world class contemporary art and performance.
It was then on to Avignon and our VRBO. What a surprise! This is a renovated Chapel and hospital built in the 1200’s. Of note, Pope Benoit 13 visited and stayed here. The online photos do not do it justice. What a find!
Pope Benoit XIII
Tomorrow we visit the city and the Pope’s Palace.
1 comment:
Wow, I love all the photos! You either have a fantastic internet connection or the patience of a saint ;).
Thank you for the time spent posting all this information, I loved the VRBO photos. Happy trails my friend.
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