Friday, June 29, 2018

Vaison-la-Romaine


Vaison-la-Romaine

History

The city was a part of Roman Empire after Julius Caesar gave Vaison the status of a federated city allied to Rome. During the reign of the Romans, Vaison reached its peak of development in the 1st - 2nd Century AD and it grew to 70 hectares. The city was situated on the right bank of the Ouvèze River. Currently there are archaeological sites.

Map of Vaison-la-Romaine
Map of Vaison-la-Romaine

Inhabitants moved to the west when Rome's power ebbed. In the 12th century they moved to the area around the Notre Dame de Nazareth Cathedral. Counts of Toulouse were jealousy of the church's authority, so they repeatedly attacked and besieged the city. Finally they built a tower, later a castle on the left bank of the river. In the result, the city around the cathedral was left. People moved to the new medieval city around the castle in the 13th century. New city grew rapidly. New cathedral and market place were built.


Miedieval city in Vaison-la-Romaine
Miedieval city in Vaison-la-Romaine

Archaeological Sites

Ruins after the Romans were discovered as a part of the archaeological work. In the city are two sites: "de Puymin" and "de La Villasse". Both are open for tourists. The entry fee is 9 euro. More information about opening hours and prices can be found on the webpage of ancient site de Puymin and ancient site de La Villasse.

Street in the medieval city of the Vaison-la-Romaine
Street in the medieval city

The medieval city

The medieval city has preserved entirely. Everyone can see on his own eyes how people lived in the medieval times. Everyone can walk on the narrow, medieval streets. There are also hotels and restaurants with a good view of the new city. During the walk it's good to visit the castle (unfortunately it's not allowed to get inside), cathedral, belfry tower, chapel of Sainte-Constance, former bishop's residence.

The castle in Vaison-la-Romaine
The castle in Vaison-la-Romaine

Rocks

The city is a perfect base for climbers. Thousands of routes are present in the surroundings rocks. The climbing areas are spread in many directions, so the car is necessary. To avoid parking problems, it's better to be on the spot sooner than later. It's good to have a good guide, to find the path to the rocks without any problems. Some helpful webpages about rocks around Vaison and the map.

Les Dentelles de Montmirail
Rocks in Les Dentelles de Montmirail

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