The Maison is in remarkable condition and like the amphitheatre had many uses during the years. It served as stables in an early time and later a meeting hall for medieval consuls. It was the church of Friars, an archive and then a museum. The inside of La Maison Carree was restored in 1988 and re-roofed in 1992.
When built, a portico enclosed the temple. Sir Norman Foster, designer of the Carree d' Art nearby, designed the square that now surrounds the museum and unites it with the Carree d'Art. Some of the streets in the area are also capped with marble.
La Caree d'Art
La Caree d'Art is a museum and gallery of contemporary art which is often referred to as the Pompidou Centre of Southern France. It was designed by British architect Norman Foster in 1993.
This modern glass and steel building is a startling contrast to the ancient Maison Caree but does not seem out of place. It is a harmonious blending of new and old.
Jardin de la Fontaine
The Jardin de la Fontaine is situated northwest of the city centre. It is peaceful and quiet walking through groves of pines and cedar, traversing green lawns and stone terraces, a pleasant way to spend a couple of morning hours. Serene ponds surround the fountain from which the 18th century garden gets its name.
This is the site of the sacred spring named for the Celtic River God Nemausus. Although only partly excavated the spring was surrounded by a building complex including baths and a theatre.
The Temple of Diana
At the South end of the Garden is the Temple of Diana. The Temple is another remnant of Roman times, but very little is known about about it. It is estimated that it was built in the second Century. There is a pretty restaurant " Le Pavilion de la Fontaine" nearby.
The Tour Mange
Located on the north side of the Garden is the city's oldest Roman monument. After a pleasant walk up the hill (Mount Cavalier) we arrive at the Tour Magne. It has been a bit of a hike, so after a short rest we pay our 2 Euro dollars and climb the stairs to the viewing area. The view is spectacular and panoramic, just what a fortress needed.
Tourist Train
A fun thing to do is to take the tourist train that curves it's way through the city to the popular tourist attractions. They have tours in 8 languages.
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