Nimes - a sunny Roman afternoon

We were blessed with lovely weather as we explored Nimes with my Mum and Dad. Our first stop was the Roman acropolis.

This amazing oval stadium has hosted gladiators, bullfights, plays and more recently pop and rock stars. We bought a family Nimes Pass which gave us free entry to three most popular attractions in Nimes. The attendant on the information desk thought we would only have time to visit two and the pass would allow us to return on another day. It felt like a challenge has been made and we accepted it eagerly.

On entering the acropolis the steps straight ahead as you entered took you into the prestigious inner ring of seats closest to the action on there ring. These would have been the seats for the wealthy.

To get to the top row of seats you had to walk away from the action to the perimeter of the acropolis, where extra staircases and vomitoire access tunnels led the assembled masses up to the top of the stadium for the birds eye view of the ring and of Nimes city.

After the acropolis it was only a short walk to the Maison Carrée. This is a very we preserved Roman temple that used to stand at the centre of the Forum and host ceremonies and civic events. It dated from 4AD and has been used for many purposes over the years.

Leaving the central Nimes we walked along canals full of large fish to Les Jardins des Fontaines, a large public park with sculptures, pools lawns and open public spaces. Most of the inhabitants of Nimes were enjoying the sunny afternoon in the park.