Global Treasures: Arles

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1142

UPC: 879061007415

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

A beautiful fountain with an Egyptian obelisk graces the Place De La République in the heart of Arles, a historic and charming small town in the south of France.

Next to the city hall is the Romanic Saint Trophime Cathedral with its splendid church porch that dates back to the 12th century.

The town's amphitheatre is the region's greatest building that has survived from the time of the Roman Empire, and it is also the most important arena in the former Gallic colony. Three watchtowers that date back to the Middle Ages were left intact by archaeologists as a reminder of the fortifications of the beautiful amphitheatre.

Arles and its magnificent cathedral soon became one of the Romans' most favored towns and was referred to as "Little Rome in Gaul" when more than 20,000 spectators witnessed savage gladiatorial battle in its amphitheatre.

Today, Arles is closely associated with the name of world famous Dutch painter Vincent Van Gogh. He completed around four hundred paintings in the town.

A visit to Arles is like traveling back in time but with all the unique atmosphere of the present.