Uzès invites walkers and architecture lovers to discover its old town, both full of charm and rich in ancient heritage.
First occupied by the Romans
Combining medieval, Renaissance and classical styles, the Duchy of Uzès – or ducal castle – is one of the city’s key sites. The visit to this place steeped in history allows you to discover the Gothic chapel and its superb stained glass windows, the splendid Renaissance facade of the main building, the furnished apartments, the cellar, and the Bermonde tower, an imposing 11th century keep whose summit offers a marvelous panorama over the roofs of the historic centre. Entering the city, we go back in time. Stroll through its medieval streets and admire the architecture of its monuments. You are here in a city steeped in history! It was first occupied by the Romans : they captured water from the Eure Valley, which has its source in Uzès, to bring it to Nîmes. For this, they built a 49 km long aqueduct, the most famous part of which is still standing today: yes, it is indeed the Pont du Gard ! From the 5th century, it became a powerful bishopric: the Diocese of Uzès would become one of the most important in Languedoc over the following centuries. As for the emblem of the city, it is its Duchy! Uzès is also known for having been 1st Duchy of France in 1632 and is still today the oldest remaining French duchy. When you walk through the historic center, certain elements of the landscape seem frozen in time: the old Saint-Théodorit cathedral and its Fenestrelle tower, the Renaissance-style or classical-style mansions, the medieval alleys, the gardens secrets, the ducal castle also called the Duchy, the church of Saint-Etienne… Racine himself wrote during his stay in Uzès (1661-1662):
What to do in Uzes ?
When you arrive in Uzès, start by strolling through its medieval streets: this is the best way to discover the many monuments of the city, but also the many shops and art galleries located in the old buildings. Do not hesitate to enter the Saint-Théodorit cathedral and the Saint-Etienne church. The Duchy can also be visited. In the heart of the city, don’t miss the Medieval Garden, created in 1995 to illustrate the virtues and uses of plants in the Middle Ages. After your walk in the garden, don’t forget to climb the 100 steps of the King’s Tower to enjoy a panoramic view of the city and its region. Why not visit a museum ? Uzès is the city where the Haribo factory is located. A museum is dedicated to the delicious candy and the Haribo universe. If you prefer crafts, history and archaeology, head to the Georges Borias museum. Housed in the former 17th century episcopal palace, this museum also hosts many temporary exhibitions. Do you enjoy walking in nature? At the foot of Uzès, the Eure Valley is the favorite place for Uzétiens to walk. In summer, you will appreciate this corner of freshness and tranquility ! Otherwise, opt for a visit to the Haras National, one of the last in France. The Eure Valley A market and unmissable events In the heart of the city, we discover the charming Place aux Herbes, lined with trees whose shade will make you happy when you are comfortably seated on the terrace. In the center of this square is a fountain. All around, every Wednesday and Saturday, there is a market whose scents and colors make your head spin. This market is a must in our destination : it is the largest in Occitanie and one of the most famous in all of Provence! The charm of the Place aux Herbes and the medieval streets make it one of the most beautiful, most typical and most colorful of the territory. Place aux Herbes And all year round, the city is teeming with events not to be missed under any circumstances: the olive festival, the truffle weekend, the Musical Nights, the Medieval…
