Vaison la Romaine, which is the main town in the Vaucluse region in Provence, dates back to the Bronze age. It became a relatively important Roman town and today there are several important  ancient sites, where Roman remains can be viewed. Since we are well into the 4th month and coming to the end of our stay in the area, we finally made time to visit these Roman sites.

There are two sites within walking distance of eachother within the town, where the remains of the ancient town can be viewed, which were part of an integrated whole, but over the centuries other parts of the original town have been built over. The main area is called Puymin, where a museum, an amphitheatre, a resevoir, a craftmen area and several important houses are located.

The museum illustrates the history of the Roman town and houses many artifacts includng statues for protection including two of the Emperors Claudius and Hadrian.

The amphitheatre is relatively complete and has been repaired in parts to the extent that it can be used to stage events today.

The second major site, smaller than Puymin, is La Villasse, which includes the remains of a parade of shops, large houses, and the public baths.

The final evidence of Roman ocupation is the working bridge over the Ouveze river.

(Click on photos for larger size and full aspect)