Tuesday, 4 June 2013

Pont du Gard to Avignon

Visited the famous Pont du Gard first thing this morning -  an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that crosses the Gardon River. It is part of the Nimes aqueduct, a 50 km-long structure built by the Romans to carry water from a spring at Uzes to the Roman colony. Built in the 1st century AD, the Pont du Gard is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and is the best preserved. The bridge has three tiers of arches, standing 48m high.An amazing site to see as close distance - we felt dwarfed by its size.

A Top Deck bus was in the carpark - had a talk to them to see if it was Susie's group - the young chap said he did his training with her last year and that Susie had left today for Paris at the start of a 50 day trip - good luck to her for a trip that long with 40+ 18-35 year olds!







These avenues of trees line many of the backroads
We only travelled a short distance today to Avignon but the scenery again was of vineyards and orchards - this time cerise (cherries to you Aussies) - bought some from a roadside stall - very tasty.

 

 
  
Tomorrow we are off to explore Avignon - its ancient streets, restored mediaeval ramparts and the immense Gothic architecture of the Palais des Papes (Palace of Popes—the papacy was based here in the 14th century).Will also be looking for a hairdresser - in desperate need of a trim (Karen I need you!)

Ann 

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