Arles

William III of Provence, who died on September 21, 1040, was an essential noble figure in the region of Arles and surrounding territories during the early 11th century. He was a Count of Provence and ruled over much of the lower Rhone Valley, including the city of Arles. His reign was marked by efforts to consolidate power among the Provençal nobility and the church. He played a crucial role in shaping the politics and ecclesiastical structures of the region, which laid the groundwork for the subsequent integration of Arles and Provence into the broader political landscapes of Southern France and the Holy Roman Empire. William III's influence extended into various aspects of regional governance and his legacy is still recognized in the context of Provençal and French medieval history.

In a bid to find sunlight and inspiration, Vincent van Gogh arrived in Arles, France on February 20, 1888. His time in Arles marked one of the most productive periods of his artistic life. The bright light, unique landscapes, and vibrant colors of Provence profoundly influenced Van Gogh, leading him to create masterpieces such as 'Starry Night Over the Rhône,' 'The Café Terrace on the Place du Forum,' and 'The Yellow House.' During his fifteen-month stay, van Gogh produced over 300 artworks, including paintings and drawings that have become quintessential representations of his style. Though his personal life was marked by tumult during this time, his artistic output and experimentation in Arles are celebrated as one of his defining periods, leaving a lasting cultural imprint on the city.

The agenda for establishing the Musée de l'Arles et de la Provence antiques (Museum of Ancient Arles) was initiated on March 15, 1981, with the aim of preserving and showcasing the rich archaeological heritage found in Arles and its vicinity. The museum officially opened to the public in 1995 and houses a remarkable collection of artifacts that span from the prehistoric periods through to the Roman and early Christian eras. Highlights include Roman sculptures, mosaics, and the well-preserved Arles Rhône 3, a Roman barge discovered in the Rhône River. The museum's foundation reflects the commitment to educational and cultural outreach, providing insights into Arles’s transformation from an ancient city to a modern cultural center, underlining its enduring importance in both history and archaeology.

The Arles Photography Festival, also known as Les Rencontres d'Arles, was founded in 1981. It is an annual summer photography festival founded by the Arles photographer Lucien Clergue, the writer Michel Tournier and the historian Jean-Maurice Rouquette. This festival is known for its wide array of photographic exhibitions, often presented in various heritage sites around the historic city of Arles. Les Rencontres d'Arles has played a significant role in disseminating the work of photographers and contributing to contemporary visual culture. Annually, thousands of photography professionals and enthusiasts flock to Arles to experience this globally acknowledged event which celebrates photographic art and innovation in a city with a rich artistic heritage that dates back to the Roman era.

On December 19, 1983, the Roman and Romanesque Monuments of Arles were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition was given for the city’s outstanding collection of Roman architecture which includes the Arles Amphitheatre (also known as the Arènes), the Roman Theatre, the Cryptoporticus, and the Alyscamps, among others. These monuments bear witness to the rich history of Arles as an important Roman city, and their preservation allows insights into the urban planning and architecture of Roman times. Aside from their historical significance, these structures also represent the enduring influence of subsequent Romanesque architecture in the region, illuminating the transitions in cultural and architectural styles over centuries.

On November 12, 1995, a major restoration project for the Arles Amphitheatre, also known as Les Arènes, was initiated to preserve its historical structure and ensure its longevity as a cultural monument. As one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, it dates back to 90 AD and has been a central focal point in Arles, initially serving as a venue for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles. The restoration project was aimed at maintaining its architectural integrity and adapting its facilities to accommodate modern events such as bullfights, concerts, and theatrical performances. This blend of ancient and contemporary use underscores the site’s enduring cultural significance and its role in Arles' community life over the centuries.

In September 2007, Arles became an integral part of the Regional Natural Park of the Camargue, which is located in the region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in the southern part of France. The Camargue is recognized for its rich biodiversity, hosting unique ecosystems that include wetlands, salt flats, and sand dunes. This designation as a protected area helps ensure the conservation of its natural landscapes and native species, including the flamboyant pink flamingos, wild Camargue horses, and bulls. The cultural traditions of the region, such as traditional bullfighting and the breeding of black bulls for the courses camarguaises, are also supported by the park designation, which emphasizes the linkage between cultural heritage and natural environment. Arles’s inclusion in the park underscores its relevance in the broader ecological and cultural heritage of the Camargue region.

The Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles was inaugurated in 2008 to celebrate the contribution and history of the artist Vincent van Gogh, who spent an important period of his career in Arles. The foundation aims to explore Van Gogh's impact on contemporary art by commissioning artists to create original works displayed alongside pieces related to Van Gogh's legacy. Its establishment in Arles highlights the city's influence on Van Gogh's work, where he created over 300 paintings and drawings. The exhibitions presented by the foundation enable visitors to engage with the ongoing dialogue between Van Gogh’s historical influence and current artistic interpretations, further enhancing Arles’ status as a nexus of historical and contemporary culture.

In 2017, the renowned Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto was announced as the designer for the highly anticipated Luma Arles creative campus, an interdisciplinary arts complex initiated by Swiss collector and philanthropist Maja Hoffmann. The project aimed to establish an avant-garde cultural hub at the Parc des Ateliers, a former industrial site that was to be transformed into a space dedicated to artistic creation and collaboration. Luma Arles serves as a venue for artists, scientists, and environmentalists to engage in experimental collaborations. One of the centerpieces of this ambitious development is the strikingly modern tower designed by Frank Gehry. Opened in the following years, Luma Arles has since become a focal point for innovation and artistic exchange, reinforcing Arles' reputation as a center for the arts.

On June 3, 2021, after many years of development and anticipation, the Luma Arles cultural complex opened its doors to the public. Located on the site of a former industrial railway yard, Luma Arles was envisioned as a creative campus, providing a dynamic space for arts, culture, and research. The centerpiece of the complex is the eye-catching tower designed by Frank Gehry, which houses galleries and workspaces. With its focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, the venue offers artists, innovators, and researchers an inspiring environment to produce and showcase cutting-edge work. The opening of Luma Arles bolstered Arles’ reputation as a beacon for artistic and cultural innovation, drawing visitors worldwide to engage with its thriving creative community.