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The Ancient City of Nimes: Provence Series Pt 7

© Mary Ellen Bradshaw

History

The ancient city of Nimes (pronounced NEEM) is one of our favorite cities in the southeast region of France. It has been continuously inhabited since prehistoric times. A settlement was established by the Gauls and was built around a sacred spring. Later it was occupied by the Celts who remained even after the Romans arrived, as early as 28 BC.

The Romans established an important Roman settlement of Nemausus. In consideration of the existing occupants named it after their River God. In 20-19 BC the Pont du Gard was built,with Nemausus being the aqueduct's final destination.

At the time of Augustus in 2 BC, the town became an official Roman Colony and flourished as an important trading center, as it remains today. It was even allowed to mint it's own brass coin to facilitate local trade.

Religion

As early as the 4th century Nimes had a Christian presence and later, in the 16 and 17th centuries it became the stronghold for the Huguenots. (Protestants)

Situation and Economy

Situated in the foothills of the Cevennes mountain range, Nimes is on the border between Provence and Languedoc. It is a 40 minutes drive to Avignon, 10 minutes from Arles and an hour drive from Marseille. It is also in near proximity to many of the Mediterranean beaches, the Rhone valley's vineyards, The Pont du Gard and the scenic Camarague.

Nimes has played a major economic role in Mediterranean Europe since Roman times, now as a trading center for brandy and wine. Nimes is also known for the manufacture of footwear, machinery and textiles. The popular cloth, denim is named after the city. (De Nimes = of or from Nimes)

Attractions, Monuments and Events

Nimes is an attractive city, with long boulevards and the typical narrow streets. It has cosy squares, parks and fountains and wonderful Provencal markets. There are many attractions in this friendly city including splendid monuments, entertainments and sports, , churches, excellent shopping and gourmet restaurants. Nimes,being a wealthy city has many of the typical Roman buildings. The Amphitheatre and La Maison Carree are good examples of uniquely Roman architecture and are two of the most well preserved monuments in the Roman world. The amphitheatre is a smaller copy of the Coliseum in Rome.

The Amphitheatre

The Amphitheatre is located in center of Nimes. Constructed in the first century BC, it was built for entertainments such as animal and gladiator combats. Fabricated out of stone without mortar, the stadium is in such good condition that it is still used today, for cultural, musical and sporting events and festivals. Bullfights are one of the main attractions.