Uzes

Visit Uzes, Languedoc-Roussillon

Uzes is a town situated to the west of Avignon and north of Nimes in the Gard department of Languedoc-Roussillon. The centre of this active town is now a protected historical monument, with a good mix of medieval stone houses and fine townhouses constructed later to discover.

Exploring Uzes

A visit to Uzes will start in the historic centre, within the boundaries of the boulevard that now surrounds the old town and has the cathedral to the east. The narrow streets of the old town are most noteworthy for the fine 17th century houses, many with ornate iron balustrades, dating from when it was a wealthy textile centre.

The centre of the town, around Place aux Herbes - with attractive stone houses and arcades around the edge, is also the centre for the markets held in the town on Wednesday and Saturday.

One particular highlight of Uzes is the 'window tower' (la tour fenestrelle) - an Italian style round stone tower with several pairs of arched windows running up its height that stands 42 metres high and is next to the cathedral. The Cathedral of Saint Theodorit itself was rebuilt in the 17th century, and the facade added in the 19th century.

The other major monument in Uzes is the Duke's Castle, dating from the early medieval period. From the outside the castle walls are dominated by its three towers and donjon, while the interior has been furnished with period furniture and there is a lovely view across the town from the top of the donjon. Entrance charge 17 euros.

Two more medieval towers in the town can be seen from the Medieval Garden, and the 18th century Church of Saint-Etienne is of interest because of its baroque facade.

The tourist office can suggest a guided tour that will ensure you see the best the town has to offer.

Attractions nearby

North of Uzes, at La Cocaliere (between St-Ambroix and St-Paul-le-Jeune) you can visit one of the most impressive cave systems in France which includes both spectacular rock formations and evidence of prehistoric habitation.

Other popular attractions near Uzès include the water park in a lovely natural setting at Bouscarasse (along the road towards Alès); the Museum of 1900 and Toys at Arpaillargues (east); and the Haribo Museum, which celebrates 100 years of the most popular sweet manufacturer in France - one for the children!

Tourist classifications for Uzes: Listed town of Art and History; 'Historical protected town centre' (secteur sauvegardé);

Suggested places to visit near Uzes, France

Distances shown are direct, driving distances will be greater.

More suggestions: Tarascon 30km; Fort Saint-Andre 31km; Villeneuve-les-Avignon 31km; Avignon 32km; Orange 34km; Aigueze 34km; Anduze 35km; Prafrance bamboo garden 35km; Fontvieille 39km; Montmajour Abbey 39km; Arles 41km; Pont d'Arc 41km; Saint-Remy-de-Provence 41km; Glanum 42km; Baux-de-Provence 42km; Gorges de l'Ardeche 44km;

See these places and more on a map at places near Uzes

Uzes tourism: sights and attractions nearby

Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit et Fenestrelle Tower (Uzes) - religious monument (0km) : Jardins de la Fontaine - remarkable garden (20km) : Ales - ville fleurie 4* (30km) : Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Repos de Montfavet (Avignon) - religious monument (32km) : Aven d'Orgnac - grand site of france (33km) : Jardin aquatique « Aux fleurs de l'eau - remarkable garden (34km) : Jardin du château de Brantes - remarkable garden (36km) : Bambouseraie de Prafrance - remarkable garden (36km) :

French version: see Uzes (Francais)