Tarascon
Tarascon wouldn’t ring a bell without Alphonse Daudet, his hero Tartarin and his Tarasque. Let’s not forget its castle, which is still one of the greatest feudal constructions in the country. Tarascon’s heritage is exceptional.
|
 |
 |
First of all, let’s talk about legendary Tarasque. From the bridge over the Rhone river, one can notice a cave under the castle, right above the water. La Tarasque, an amphibious monster, used to live there, asking for young people to eat. In 1948, the legend came to an end when St Marthe led the subjugated monster to the town center where it got exterminated. Alphonse Daudet used this popular story to write his novel dealing with Tartarin, a mythomaniac hunter.
Tarascon lies along the Rhone ; the town was therefore an important fluvial harbor, just as Avignon. A first castle was built between 1400 and 1449 to have it defended. « Good king » René had it improved later. It could show its 48 meters’ height to Beaucaire, its main opponent. In spite of its rigour shown from the artillery tower to the clock tower, its interior is extremely refined. Six tapestries from the XVII century, which represent Scipio the African’achievements are just one example of the richness you can find in the numerous rooms.
Let’s go back into town. You should definitely have a look at number 5, boulevard Itam. Daudet’s soul still lives in this Tartarin house, which was inspired by the novel. The hunter is still around, waiting for a new monster to hunt. La Tarasque itself is waiting in the garden.
If you are fond of provençal crafts, go visit Charles Deméry’s museum and its souleïado cloths. 40000 wooden boards that were used for printing are shown.
Built in the XII and XIII centuries, St Marthe’s church contains some relics of the saint in its crypt. The rest of the town benefits from a rich architecture including friezes, cornices and gates that are still well-maintained. Tarascon offers a charming heritage.
|
|
|
