Terminus: Nemausus

the graffiti on the bench says "Je suis Charlie"

Nîmes (week 27)

Loyal readers will know that we previously visited Pont du Gard, a bridge for the Nemausus (now known as Nîmes) aqueduct.  We figured that any town worthy of such a structure deserved to be visited, so we travelled up there this sunny 16C afternoon.  Even better, the Mistral has died down for the time being, so it was a nice day with no risk of being blown off anything.

The Roman sites in Nîmes consist of a trio of buildings: the Amphitheatre (arena), the Maison Carrée, and the Tour Magnus.  We didn't have time to go to the last - a ruined tower that was part of the Roman fortifications.  The Maison Carrée is a Roman temple (to whom it is not known), which is called one of the best-preserved from the Empire.  The front is the most obvious, with impressive columns and an actual roof.  The interior is completely modern, though - it's just an exhibition space normally showing a historical film.

The Nîmes Amphitheatre (l) and the Maison Carrée (r)

The arena is smaller than the one in Arles, but it seems better preserved.  Medieval modifications were apparently not incorporated directly into the structure, unlike the one in Arles (or the conservators have since removed them).  Nîmes's arena is considerably smaller as well, which perhaps explains why the restoration is more complete.  That doesn't mean it is completely safe!  There is no way parts of this building would be open in Canada: at one point you can walk on top of the exterior wall, with nothing to stop you from just falling off the edge and down to the street 70' below.

Nîmes is a pleasant and clean town, with easy access to parking and some nice squares.  We decided to stay for dinner and finally try eating at the ubiquitous Quick burger chain.  It may not be quite up to the standards of Steak 'n Shake, but at least it is French.