Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery
Arles, France
Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery
9 Boulevard des Lices, Arles, France, 13200 Original Property Opened in 1661 Historic Hotels Worldwide member since 2018Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery was once a Carmelite convent founded in 1661. Some three centuries later, several enterprising hoteliers had transformed the entire complex into a luxurious boutique hotel. It quickly developed a prestigious reputation. But by the early 2000s, time had taken its toll on the historical structure. Sofitel soon acquired the building, which it determined to save through an ambitious series of renovations. Renowned designer Christian Lacroix oversaw the project, who managed to brilliantly combine elements of the location’s stunning 17th-century character with contemporary artistic flair. When the renovations concluded in 2014, Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery stood as one of southern France’s most esteemed holiday destinations. Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery possesses five meeting venues that convey an alluring, tranquil ambiance, which is perfect for hosting friends and family alike. Famous attractions abound, from the Arles Amphitheatre to the Alyscamps, many of them a part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. With the hotel located right in the heart of the city of Arles, guests will be able to easily explore the area history and culture.
Discover
- Discover the spectacular stonework of theJules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery. This magnificent historic building once served as a 17th-century Carmelite nunnery before becoming a luxurious boutique hotel at the beginning of the 20th century.
- Admire the lavish accommodations of this stunning historic hotel. Jules César Arles Hotel & Spa-MGallery has entertained many distinguished guests since its grand debut in 1928, including Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and even King George VI of the United Kingdom.
- Stroll through Jardin d'été just beyond the hotel’s front door. This beautiful public park features many wonderful landscaped gardens, and is just a short distance from the historic Tour des Mourgues.
Explore
- Explore the Arles Amphitheatre just moments away. The Arles Amphitheatre was the site of many Roman chariot races and gladiatorial games. Built in the 1st century A.D., this extraordinary structure could seat up to 20,000 people in its heyday.
- Travel to the Cryptoportico of the Forum. Like many of the other Roman structures scattered throughout Arles, the Cryptoportico is part of the city’s astonishing UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Alyscamps nearby. Known as the Elysian Fields in English, the Alyscamps is referenced throughout the writings of Ariosto and Dante. The structure serves as an open-air museum, and is part of Arles’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience
- Experience a fascinating theatrical performance at the Roman Theater of Arles. First opened in 12 B.C., this remarkable historic structure is one of the world’s oldest theaters still in use today.
- Tour the exhibitions of the Musée de l'Arles et de la Provence antiques several blocks away. One of Arles’s most renowned cultural institutions, this impressive museum houses a large collection of Roman artifacts found throughout Provence. Perhaps its greatest collection item is an ancient Roman boat called the Arles Rhône 3.
- Gaze upon the breathtaking architecture of the Primatiale Cathédrale Saint-Trophime. Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, it stands as a marvelous symbol of Gothic-style architecture. Now part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, many stunning pieces of artwork still fill the building, such as its magnificent west portal.
Taste
- Taste some amazing seafood when staying in Arles. Many local restaurants make brilliant use of the local ingredients from the nearby Mediterranean coastline. Be sure to try bouillabaisse, which is a classic fish stew served throughout Provence.
- Enjoy a wonderful local dish known as ratatouille. Ratatouille is a delectable vegetable stew native to the region that typically consists of tomatoes, onions, zucchini, aubergine, and bell peppers. A number of herbs are used too, such as marjoram, fennel, basil, and “herbes de Provence.”
- Savor some salade niçoise. Originally from the nearby city of Nice, salade niçoise is a hallmark among Provençal cuisine. It consists of a brilliant combination of tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, niçoise olives, anchovies, and olive oil dressing.