Uzes and Avignon

Having found the end of the Nimes aqueduct, we had to locate its source in Uzes.  The ** medieval town with Roman roots actually has more to offer than that, as we discovered. It is known for its four towers and as the "First Ducy of France"--made a duchy in 1565.  The current owner is the 17th in line, and he allows visitors to visit his castle for a fee of 18E, but we declined.  The old town is full of medieval streets centered on the Place aux Herbs whose Wednesday morning market we stumbled on.

source of the Roman aqueduct in Uzes

Following a somewhat incorrect map of the town we headed for the source of the Roman aqueduct located along a stream in the large town park.  We thought we had identified it twice but with the help of a fellow searcher from Australia we located the real thing.  The information plaque confirmed it, though lack of signage to the site was frustrating.

Off to Avignon 25 km away for a late lunch and visit to the imposing Palais des Papes, home of the papacy for most of the 14th century, including the reign of 6 popes.  It was added to and occasionally had sections removed over this period.  After the return of the papacy to Rome the palace was used as a military base and hospital and lost much of its woodwork and frescoes, but restoration is in progress.

part of the front of the Palais des Papes

Nearby is the famous Pont d'Avignon, also known as Pont-Benezet, which was built between 1177 and 1185 and spans the Rhone, at lease partway.  We walked out on it but somehow didn't take a photo!  At 6:30 we started looking for a hotel and with the assistance of the desk clerk at the K..., found a room outside the city walls at the Hotel Bristol.