A legacy of light and life
“Arles is a city where history, art and a remarkable quality of light come together. Eight monuments are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while its Roman heritage, medieval streets and vibrant contemporary art scene create a unique dialogue between past and present.
“It was this extraordinary light that drew Vincent van Gogh to Arles, where he spent 15 months creating some of his most iconic paintings. Today, photography, festivals, Provençal traditions and LUMA continue to shape the city, while the nearby Camargue Regional Natural Park offers a striking escape into wild, protected landscapes.” Arles Camargue Tourist Office
Courtesy of Arles Camargue Tourist Office
Courtesy of Arles Camargue Tourist Office
Courtesy of Arles Camargue Tourist Office
Vincent van Gogh paints Arles
During his stay in Arles, Vincent van Gogh was captivated by both daylight and starlight. Inspiration led him to paint more than 300 works; among them Starry Night Over the Rhône (1888) – a famed depiction of the night sky in Arles. It was painted on the bank of the Rhône river, only a short walk from the Yellow House, which van Gogh was renting at the time. The Yellow House was severely damaged in bombing-raids during World War II, and later demolished, but the streetscape without the house looks almost the same today. A placard on the scene memorializes its former existence.
Vincent van Gogh 1888
Planning a trip to the South of France? Visit arlestourisme.com for a wonderful introduction to the city of Arles, where you can walk in the footsteps of van Gogh. Better yet, book an enchanting ‘Sensations of Lyon & Provence’ luxury voyage with Emerald Cruises & Tours, and sail along the Rhône & Saône rivers, with special stops along the way, including at Arles!
