Uzès, Medieval commune in Gard, France.
Uzès is a commune in the Gard department of southern France, known for its pale limestone buildings and narrow lanes that wind around a central square. The historic center shows Renaissance houses with arcades, while fountains and small squares break up the pathways.
The duchy arose during the Middle Ages and received the highest rank among the French peers, a position that lasted until the Revolution. The counts expanded their castle in the 11th century and extended their influence across the region.
The name comes from the Ucetii, a Celtic tribe whose settlement flourished here during Roman times. The Place aux Herbes at the center still carries medieval arcades where vendors offer goods from the surrounding countryside.
The town center stays closed to vehicles, so visitors explore the narrow lanes, shops and historic buildings on foot. The Saturday market begins early and draws more people by midday, while the side streets remain quiet even after the market closes.
The Fenestrelle Tower shows a round plan with circular windows and belongs to the Lombardy Romanesque style, which does not appear elsewhere in southern France. The tower originally served as the bell tower of the cathedral and now stands freely beside it.
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