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.

I had been here before, but as the chapel is always locked, I had never been inside. Talking to the archeologists it came out, that they had the key to the front door - and so I had a chance to get inside. Compared to the elaborate carvings of the western facade, the single nave and the choir of the chapel are straight and simple. Facing east to the choir.