Ancient Arles

Ancient Arles

What an incredible day we have had here in Arles. With it's tremendous history of battles won and lost you can't help but be awed by it all. We explored the Eglise Saint Trophine (a church) today and tried to teach the girls what all the carvings and paintings mean. The power of religion in ancient times must have been absolutely omnipresent. Studying the bones of a man declared a saint.... Over 1800 years ago, then the ancient sarcophagus'... Then the marble carvings depicting where one went if they were good.... And where they went if not.... Wow. And trying to explain it all to the girls was a lesson in itself!

We also visited the Roman Amphitheater and there was a school group there watching a re-enactment of a battle between two gladiators. 2000 years ago the Romans held court in the amphitheater and I swear if you listen and look carefully enough, you can see and hear them still. 

Then we picked up a few groceries and headed home for lunch. I was excited to get everyone trying fois gras pâté (don't tell them what that is please!) and some crazy French cheeses (they smell so bad but taste so good!). And of course Derek and I enjoyed a bottle of wine (a Demi bottle given it was only noon).  After lunch we all had a bit of quiet time (I love that part ) and we then went walking and shopping. 

We may head to Avignon demain, or possibly stay here and explore more. There's a massive market here on Saturday mornings and it supposed to be one of the best in Provence. I can't wait! The table cloths are gorgeous and I am going to get something to help me remember this amazing town.