Roquette district

The Roquette district, the soul of Arles

The Arles audio-guided tour takes you to the heart of the historic Roquette district. Typical streets, narrow houses, pale stone façades covered with greenery and painted wooden shutters make up an Arles blend that will delight romantics and photographers.

A district of boatmen and fishermen

A district forms here from the twelfth century, southwest of the city walls. Formerly called Vieux-Bourg, it was mainly occupied by fishermen and craftsmen working the river trades. With its oven, its mills and its ferry to cross the Rhône, the Roquette was long the favourite district of the boatmen, keeping today a strong popular identity.

What there is to see

You stroll through the Roquette along its narrow, picturesque lanes, between shaded little squares, flowered façades and craftsmen's workshops. The district has preserved its authenticity and its village atmosphere in the heart of the city. It is one of the most charming corners of Arles, to be explored at leisure, away from the great monuments.

Practical information

The Roquette district is southwest of the centre of Arles, between the Rhône and Boulevard Georges-Clemenceau. Its streets can be walked freely on foot at all hours; some, cobbled and narrow, call for good shoes. The shops and workshops keep their own hours.

How long has the Roquette district existed?

The district formed from the twelfth century, southwest of the walls. Formerly called Vieux-Bourg, it was occupied by fishermen and boatmen.

What makes the Roquette charming?

Its narrow lanes, its pale stone houses with painted shutters and its popular village atmosphere in the heart of Arles make up the whole charm of the district.