Travel guide – arles
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Overview
Arles sits on a low hill where the Rhône River branches in two parts to the sea. The town dates back to the 7th century BC and is best known for its amazingly well-preserved Roman arena, Les Arènes, (which is still used and can seat 20,000) in the heart of the city, but there are also many other interesting Roman and medieval ruins. The sites are unique in that they are integrated into the houses and buildings of the town, rather than sitting apart as they do in other towns. The palatial 17th-century Hôtel de Ville, on Arles' central Place de la République, was inspired by Versailles. Its vast entrance hall is built on top of Cryptoporticus du Forum. This vast, dark, dank and wonderfully spooky underground gallery was built by the Romans, possibly as a barracks for public slaves. Across the Place de la République is the Cathédrale St-Trophime whose doorway is one of the most magnificent examples of 12th-century Provençal stone carving in existence. The centre of Arles is truly medieval in character, with its narrow streets winding between the ancient buildings. Van Gogh spent a year in the city in 1888 and produced almost 200 paintings of the town and surrounding area during one of his most prolific periods. Arles is a rather sedate town with little to offer in the way of excitement. Its busiest time is during the Saturday market.
Climate
Provence has a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures along the coast tend to be slightly higher and swimming in the Mediterranean can be enjoyed as late as September/October. Most rainfall occurs in spring (April to May). Provence is renowned for the presence of the Mistral wind, a cold, dry north westerly wind that funnels down the Rhone Valley, often reaching 60 miles per hour (100km/hr), and is at its strongest and most frequent during winter and spring.
Health
French hospitals and health facilities are first class. British, and visitors from other EU countries, are entitled to heavily discounted medical treatment and medicines on presentation of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Otherwise doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical insurance is advised. Pharmacies will provide some first aid, but charge for it. There have been increased reports of hantavirus (caused by rodents) in the Ardennes, Aisne and Jura regions. Rabies also occurs occasionally. In February 2006, France confirmed its first cases of bird flu; all affected birds have been culled and precautionary measures taken. The risk is low for travellers, but close contact with domestic, wild and caged birds should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked.
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