Avignon, Pont du Gard and Uzes

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Le Pont D’Avignon

P1040287 (640x480) - CopyPont d’Avignon was worth a photo or two, simply to say we’ve seen it. Avignon seen from the river, with its medieval walls surrounding the papal palace and the town

Vegies but such French panache

Vegies but such French panache

makes another pleasing photo, but otherwise the visit was not very impressive, except for the markets.

 

 

 

The famous Pont du Gard was impossible to capture on camera from a good angle because of all the greenery along the path leading to it. When I last visited it, in about 2006 we could only park on the hills, but we saw all of the bridge.P1040346 (640x480)

Walking on the mid-level of the Pont du Gard

Walking on the mid-level of the Pont du Gard

 

This time we walked across the first level, a pretty amazing experience. Looking up, I got a feeling for the vastness of the structure and appreciated the skill of the Romans who built it in the 1st century AD as part of a 50 km aqueduct running from Uzes to Nimes. I was very surprised to learn that the gradient is only 17 metres over the length of the bridge and it used to carry about 44 million gallons of water daily to the people of Nimes.

 

P1040392 (468x640)That was impressive, but the best part of our outing  for me, was Uzes.

Enjoying a pint while people watching

Enjoying a pint while people watching.

The buildings, made of that gorgeous pale golden stone, with green, mauve or blue shutters above shops with goods displayedP1040370 (480x640) by interior decorators, meant that very soon my camera ran out of battery power, but I have several hundred photos to choose from.

Just had to capture this one-- no idea what she's promoting

Just had to capture this one– no idea what she’s promoting

 

Displayed with French flair

Displayed with French flair

 

The Duke of Uzes is wealthy and high up in the princely lineage. Prices are high (of course) but as he spends time and money renovating his duchy, visitors are numerous and appreciative.

 

 

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