LE PONT DU GARD - AVIGNON
This tour gives you the opportunity to plunge into Provence history : from the roman epoca to the medieval times.
Le Pont du Gard : This incredible bridge was built around 19 BC !
It is in fact a part of an aqueduct which transported spring water from a catchment area near Uzès to the Romans in Nîmes. It was engeneered to carry the daily water supply along its 31 miles. This huge and so old construction is very impressive. This is something you will never forget in your life !Free lunch in Avignon
Visit of Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The city was a strategic site in the Rhone valley. With the arrival of the popes in the 14th Century, it became a second Rome. It was enriched by art in the 17th and 18th Centuries, and it remained papal property up to the French revolution. Its medieval walls cover nearly 3 miles and are punctuated by 39 towers and seven gates ! Within the walls thrives a culturally rich city. The streets and squares are often filled with buskers.
The major site of the city is the huge pope's palace, the biggest gothic palace in the world. Just beeing at the foot of the impressive building will let you an unforgettable souvenir. It gives an idea of the grand life under the seven French popes who built a miniature Vatican during their rule here. You can visit 25 rooms of it, including the ceremonial rooms, chapels, cloister, private papal apartments with priceless frescoes, and others. (entrance not included)
The second point of interest is the St Bénezet bridge. This legendary bridge is a significant symbol of the history of Avignon, famous throughout the world due to the beloved children's song. The bridge was built in the late 1100's. Though it was often rebuilt after damage inflicted by the raging flood waters of the Rhone. (entrance not included)
Between the sites, your driver-guide will explain you many things about the history, the tradition, the natural environment...
You will be able to stop as much as you want to take pictures, or just to breath the fabulous scents of the provençal plants...