Travel bucket list idea:
Les Alyscamps
Arles, Provence, France
Photo Arles Tourism Association © Guillaume Frey
Last updated: 19 July, 2024
This evocative, romantic Roman burial ground – once the most famous cemetery in medieval Europe – is today a significant historical and archaeological site. It’s also been immortalised in paintings by Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.
It stretches along a tree-lined avenue filled with sarcophagi and ancient tombs. It’s the burial site of the legendary St Trophime and the first bishops of Arles, and remains an important stop on the pilgrimage to Compostela. The site’s name translates to ‘Elysian Fields’, reflecting its importance as a resting place for the elite.
As you wander, you can explore the well-preserved sarcophagi, some adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions. Also stop by the medieval Saint-Honorat Church and the remnants of the Romanesque Church of Saint-Césaire for a glimpse into the evolving architectural styles and religious practices over the centuries.
Logistics
Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
The site is a short walk from the centre of Arles, making it easily accessible on foot. Alternatively, local buses can take you close to the entrance.
When to do it
The necropolis is open year-round, but visiting in these seasons enhances the experience with comfortable temperatures and picturesque surroundings. The best time to visit is during spring (April to June) or autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild and crowds are fewer. Be sure to check the opening hours in advance, as they can vary seasonally.
