Arles

The town of Arles was occupied by the Celto-Ligures in the 6th Century B.C. Also known as la ville aux marécages ("marsh town"), Arles spent many years under Roman occupation, traces of which are still in evident. After years of successive invasions, the Counts of Provence came into power in 1239. Arles became a religious and cultural center and it was home to 19 religious councils and hosted various popular festivals. It also boasts a Roman arena with a double arcade gallery, the largest Gallo-Roman monument in France, an ancient theater where festivals are held, as well as marble public baths and a very long aqueduct. Arles also hosts the distinction of being one of the largest cities in France in terms of area, which when combined with historic relics around every corner, makes it a sightseeing wonder for every traveler.