Viking Cruises

34 | France Destination Guide 12th‑century Cathedral of St. Vincent, the smallest active cathedral in France. The guide, a lifelong resident, shares stories of life in this hilltop village. Passing the ornate façade of the Maison des Chevaliers, decorated with stone horsemen and built by a wealthy salt merchant, guests reach the summit for panoramic views over the Rhône Valley. A plaque honours Pope Julius II, once Bishop of Viviers, who later commissioned Michelangelo to paint the Sistine Chapel. On the descent, Frances recounts how her aunt once sheltered Allied airmen in a hidden room during World War II, an intimate story that brings history to life and reflects the personal touch of Viking's local guides. ARLES & THE FLAVOURS OF PROVENCE In Arles, art and history intertwine beneath the Provençal sun. This was the setting for some of Vincent van Gogh's most luminous works, including Starry Night Over the Rhône and The Yellow House. The same golden light that stirred his imagination continues to bathe the cobblestone squares, Roman amphitheatre and pastel‑hued facades in a warm, ethereal glow. Walking through the town, one can almost trace the brushstrokes of Van Gogh's legacy. His time here was brief but prolific, producing more than 300 paintings and drawings in just over a year. Arles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its Roman roots run deep. The amphitheatre, still used for performances and festivals, stands as a testament to the city's enduring cultural vibrancy. Nearby, the ancient Forum and Baths of Constantine evoke the grandeur of imperial Rome, while the Church of St. Trophime showcases exquisite Romanesque architecture. VA N GOG H 'S C A FE IN SPIR ATION , A R LES A R LES , FR A NC E

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