Roman around Nimes.

Nimes lies in the Languedoc region of Southern France, and is a hubbub of Roman history and city life. 

Dominating the city centre is the arena, originally built in the 1st century, under Emperor Augustus, for Roman entertainment, it is still used today for the same purpose, albeit less Gladiatorial warfare, and more bull fights and rock music. 

It was late in the day on Sunday when I arrived in Nimes, having been distracted by the Pont du Gard and the beautiful landscape of the Languedoc region along the way. But there was still time for a 'rome' around the city... (I'm not even sorry.)

The city centre had been overrun by a societies fair, and was crowded with Flamenco dancers, boy scouts and even a group of check shirt-clad cowboys. The restaurants had closed, and the shops were shut for the Sabbath Day. 

But the monuments were still there to explore. Even if not inside. 

As well as the breath-taking feat of engineering that is the arena, Nimes is also home to the Maison Carreé and Nimes Cathedral. Each of these buildings is so well preserved, and I can’t help but think that this is partially to do with the fact that for the most part, they are still used everyday by the locals, still fulfilling their original purposes. 

The city itself is a mix of 18th and 19th century decadence, with modern constructions, and then the Roman and Medieval elements thrown in. 

Pretty, glamorous, and a little bit indulgent, Nimes is beautiful, bustling city that is well worth an few hours of your time.