Place du Forum (Forum Square), Arles

Forum Square holds significant historical and artistic importance. As with many Roman cities, the square served as the bustling city center. Originally, it spanned a large portion of Arles, stretching from the present-day Boulevard des Lices to the north and extending towards the river.

One of the main reasons why Forum Square is well-known is due to Vincent van Gogh's famous painting titled "Cafe Terrace at Night." Executed in mid-September 1888, this oil painting depicts a vibrant scene of a café terrace on Forum Square. Today the cafe is called Cafe Van Gogh and is painted in yellow, just as one would see in the painting. Although the painting is not signed, van Gogh described and mentioned it in his letters on multiple occasions. In addition, a pen drawing of the composition exists in the artist's estate.

Today, visitors can stand in the same spot Van Gogh once stood when painting the charming café on Forum Square. The square continues to be a hub of activity, offering a lively atmosphere day and night. Tourists can indulge in the vibrant animations, soak in the ambiance of the square, and experience the timeless beauty that attracted van Gogh to capture this scene on canvas.

Forum Square serves as a testament to the historical significance of Arles as a Roman city, and it holds a special place in the art world as the subject of one of van Gogh's most renowned works. The combination of its rich historical background and its association with famous art draws visitors from around the world, providing them with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the cultural tapestry of Arles.