The Rhone through Provence

Viviers

5.7.23 - 5.7.23 66 °F

We arrived at about midnight at our overnight stop at the medieval town of Viviers in preparation for our shore excursions in the morning. It is famed for its medieval catherdral and views over the Rhone river. It retains an important heritage from its rich past, including many listed monuments. These include the Town Hall, in the former bishops' palace; the 18th-century Hôtel de Roqueplane, now the seat of the diocese; the Cathedral of St Vincent, Romanesque, flamboyant Gothic and 18th-century in style, with its choir decorated by Gobelins tapestries and its marble high altar; the 16th-century Knights' House (Maison des Chevaliers) with its Renaissance façade, decorated with medallioned busts; and the Grande Rue with the elegant mansions of Beaulieu and Tourville, both dating from the 18th century. The Cathedral of St Vincent: The construction of the tower dates from the 11th century, and the greater part of the rest of the building from the 12th century. The vaulted ceiling was destroyed during the Wars of Religion of the 16th century, and was not reconstructed until the 18th century, when the work was carried out by Jean-Baptiste Franque.