Saint-Gabriel de Tarascon

Just about 12 kms north of Arles was an "interchange" during Roman times, as the Via Aurelia Domitia linked to the Via Aurelia here. Centuries later a chapel was erected near this once important place, first recorded in 858. This was the predecessor of the chapel seen today, built end of the 12th century. It is surrounded by olive trees and was watched over by a fortified castle on the hill. While the fortification is in ruins, the chapel, dedicated to Saint Gabriel, is still in a good condition.

The western portal is built like a Roman aedicula with Corinthian columns and seems inspired by the many Roman buildings, that still existed within the 12th century. There are two interesting Romanesque reliefs seen here.