Pronunciation: [ˈɑːlz] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "Arles" is not intuitive. It is pronounced /ɑːrlz/ according to the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), meaning the "a" is pronounced like the "a" in "car" and the "r" is pronounced in the back of the mouth. The "e" at the end of the word is not pronounced, adding to the confusion. Arles is a town in the south of France, famous for its Roman ruins and association with Vincent van Gogh.
Arles is a noun that refers to a city located in the southern region of France, specifically in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. It has a rich historical and cultural heritage that stretches back to ancient times. Arles is situated on the Rhône River and has a population of around 50,000 inhabitants.
From a historical perspective, Arles was a major city during the Roman Empire, famous for its Roman architecture and its important role as a regional capital. It was even proposed as the capital of the Western Roman Empire in the 4th century. The city boasts several significant Roman structures, including an amphitheater, a theater, and several ancient baths.
Arles is also renowned for its association with the renowned Dutch painter, Vincent van Gogh. During his stay in Arles in the late 19th century, he produced many of his most famous paintings, inspired by the colorful landscapes and vibrant culture of the region.
Furthermore, Arles is known for its annual photography festival, Les Rencontres d'Arles, which attracts numerous artists, professionals, and photography enthusiasts from around the world. The festival showcases a wide variety of photographic works and promotes dialogue and exchange within the international photographic community.
In conclusion, Arles is a historically significant city in the south of France, known for its Roman heritage, its association with the artist Vincent van Gogh, and its prominent photography festival.
Another form of L. arrha.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Arles" is derived from the Latin name "Arelate". This Latin name, in turn, is believed to have originated from the Ancient Greek word "Αρελάται" (Arellatai). The exact meaning of this Greek term is uncertain, but it is thought to derive from a local Celtic language and may have meant "near the pond" or "near the swamp". Over time, the name evolved from Αρελάται (Arellatai) to Arelate and eventually to Arles, its current form in English.
