“The best education you will ever get is traveling. Nothing teaches you more than exploring the world and accumulating experiences.” – unknown
The first town we went to in Provence was Orange – think (oh – rahnzh) you may think you can pronounce it but you really MUST have a French accent. But I digress – this place is known for its grand Roman arch.Arc de Triomphe – This 60 foot tall arch is in the center of a pleasant traffic circle.Technically the only real Roman arches of triumph are in Rome’s Forum, built to commemorate various emperors’ victories. But THIS arch was the model for those in Rome. It was erected in about AD 19.Think about that – the year 19!!!Pont du Gard – In the first century AD, the Romans built a 30 mile aqueduct that ran to Nimes, one of ancient Europe’s largest cities. While most of it ran on or below the ground, at Pont du Gard the aqueduct spans a canyon on a massive bridge over the Gardon River—one of the most remarkable surviving Roman ruins anywhere. The aqueduct supported a small canal that dropped one inch for every 350 feet, supplying the city of Nimes with nine million gallons of water per day (about 100 gallons per second). Whew, a lot to process so I needed to cool my feet in the river!This was our home for the next three nights. The owners, whom I regretfully did not think to photograph, were Dominic and Dominique.We affectionately referred to them as the Doms! Lovely place and lovely people.Beautiful courtyard for breakfast each morning!Orange’s ancient theatre is the best preserved in existence, and the only such theatre in Europe with its (awesome) acoustic wall still standing. Built in the first century AD, the huge theatre celebrated the glory of the empire and cemented Rome’s presence in Provence. Strolling along the outside of its massive wall is an impressive experience today – imagine how it must have intimidated visitors 2,000 years ago. Today the people in Orange still enjoy this venue – it holds 10,000 citizens.We took a side trip to visit Avignon……with its Palace of the Popes. For nearly 100 years (1309- 1403) Avignon was home to seven popes. Who knew that popes lived in France back in the day? I liked this pic because you can also see the kitchen garden. Les Halles – or market. In 1970, the town’s open air market was replaced by this modern one (more efficient, with a parking garage overhead, hoping to compete with supermarkets in the suburbs).We stepped inside for a sensual experience of organic breads, olives, and a festival of mold cheeses.The market’s jungle-like hydroponic green entrance wall reflects the changes of seasons and helps mitigate its otherwise stark exterior.I found this carousel to be quite interesting. I’ve never seen one with two levels. Twice the fun!The squares in Provence were often lined with the most wonderful Plane trees.The trees are quite ancient and very much respected and protected. I love the way this café built their table around the tree!Typical scene and oh so lovely. Makes me wonder just how many people have climbed these stairs over the centuries…🤔There he is! Once in awhile I take control of the camera 😉
Orange is such a great place to explore from. We really enjoyed Vaison-la-Romaine, about a half hour northwest, if you are headed that direction. The town itself is prettier than the photos, but the Roman town, medieval castle, and upper town are great. Very walkable.
Murphys on the Move 
This all looks incredible! ❤️
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What a beautiful part of France! Provence has got to be on my bucket list.
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Orange is such a great place to explore from. We really enjoyed Vaison-la-Romaine, about a half hour northwest, if you are headed that direction. The town itself is prettier than the photos, but the Roman town, medieval castle, and upper town are great. Very walkable.
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Yup! We stayed in Vaison-la-Romaine for 2 nights.
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Very serene and beautiful!LorettaSpread Love ❤️
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Wonderful!
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love the history! I must add Orange to my list!!
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