Nimes is a city and commune of southern France, capital of the Gard département. The city derives its name from Nemausus 'From The Source'.

FACTS AND FIGURES

• Population: 130,000
• Denim fabric gets its name from this city (de Nîmes)
• Founded by Emperor Augustus in 2nd century BC and developed into a major Roman colony
• Was Huguenot (Protestant) stronghold in 16th century

SIGHTS AND ATTRACTIONS

• The elliptical Roman amphitheatre, of the 1st or 2nd century AD, is the best-preserved Roman arena in France
• Jardin de la Fontaine (park with Roman ruins)
• Pont du Gard (between Nîmes and Avignon; spectacular three-tiered Roman aqueduct: 49 m high and 275 m long; UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Golf Nimes-Campagne