Uzes
TIME : 2016/2/22 10:55:06
Uzes
If you're traveling through western Provence, no doubt you're going to visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman-era aqueduct that is truly worth seeing. But many see it as simply a monument to Roman times, and lose its context. And that's where a visit to Uzès can help. Uzès, located in the eastern part of Languedoc, was the starting point of the original aqueduct, and carried water via the Pont du Gard to nearby Nimes!
But Uzès is not only a remnant of the Roman era. It also had a major role in royal French history, with the Duke of Uzès being one of the most important titles in the land. In fact, most of the medieval sites and architecture in Uzès is built atop their Roman predecessors, including a first-century temple – showing that when it came the Uzès, they weren't kidding about their display of power.
Today the main draw of Uzès, at least as far as locals are concerned, is its fantastic Saturday market at the Place aux Herbes. After strolling through and browsing vendors' wares, you can take a load off at one of the many cafes along the square – even in inclement weather, as its ancient archways now cover dozens of tables for hungry and thirsty patrons.
But even if you can't be in Uzès on Saturday, there's still a ton of shopping to be had. From truffles to clothing to gifts, it's where to pick up your treats to bring back home. And if you're traveling with the family, your kids will flip out at the HARIBO Museum, known in French as the “Musée du Bonbon.” Just don't blame us for the ensuing sugar rush!