Another good night of rest and we were all ready to continue discovering the ancient city of Nimes which is flush with Roman artifacts, ruins and sights to behold. The city made its fortune in the textile trade. You are most likely wearing a piece of this famous garment today. “Denim” means really de Nimes or translated “from Nimes”.
Of course today it is supplied worldwide from factories in third world and developing countries much cheaper than the people of Nimes could make it but the town prospered on it. Evidence are the fantastic public gardens complete with Roman watch tower “La Magne”.
Onward from there, we walked through narrow cobblestone streets to the ancient water distribution center where the water from the Pont du Gard aquaduct was routed to the various purposes. It’s is amazing to see the level of ingenuity the Romans had developed.
From there we continued our walk to the next Roman building called the “Maison Carree” or square house. It is really a temple which was recently completely restored. Back in 1998 when Greg and I last saw it, it was as black as coal from pollution.
Finally, we promenaded along the waterways back to our car and embarked on a 2 hour scenic drive to the city of Aix-en-Provence for lunch.
Next stop will be our VRBO rental in Grasse. Just a tad nervous that it will work out ok. More on that on my next post.
Planet Travel Blog 
The only thing I remember from my college art history class about roman temple works is the “egg and dart ” motif. Those carved details are gorgeous! Wow, wow, wow! Reflecting on Roman life makes me want to read a good fiction book, but there was a dark side to it all as well. Such a stroll you all had.
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Had to read and look at the pictures a few times in order to figure out the water distribution. As you said, amazing! Loving these history lessons and the pictures are a bonus.
Starting to ease into summer here, temps in the high 60s low 70s.
Josie’s play tomorrow night. Charlotte’s Web, and pf course starring our own Josie Blade as Charlotte.
Thinking of you both enjoying your latest adventure!
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Ron. Thanks for keeping us posted on events at home. Wish Josie good luck and may “she break a leg”. Miss you all.
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Those Romans sure got around. Spectacular Architecture! Really beautiful, I see the weather is still awesome for your amazing trip. Cheers!
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Oops! Forgot to click post. You must have been amazed to see the “Maison Carree” in its restored state after having once seen it covered in soot and/or mildew. And, of course, to actually see the brilliant aqueduct system still intact and masterfully conceived and constructed. I must spend more time in France.
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