Saintes, Roman archaeological site in Charente-Maritime, France
Saintes is a town in Charente-Maritime, southwestern France, where Roman remains stand beside medieval churches and 18th-century houses. The Charente flows through the center, and stone arches span the water, connecting both riverbanks with cobbled streets.
The Romans founded this settlement in the first century and built an amphitheater and baths that remain visible today. During the Middle Ages, the town became a stop for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela, and several religious institutions arose during that period.
The riverbanks connect older neighborhoods with newer sections, and locals shop for fresh produce along the waterfront streets on market days. Traditional bakeries sell brioches vendéennes, and cafés along the pedestrian areas fill with residents meeting for coffee and conversation at midday.
The center is walkable, and most landmarks lie within short distance of each other along the riverfront. Many shops and restaurants close for a midday break, so plan visits in the morning or afternoon.
An underground network of Roman channels runs beneath several streets and once supplied water to the ancient baths. These galleries are partly accessible and show the construction methods of Roman engineers, who fitted large stone blocks without mortar.
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