Espace Van Gogh, Arles
Espace Van Gogh holds historical significance as the former main hospital of the city. Dating back to the sixteenth century, the building served as Arles' primary medical institution until the twentieth century. However, its fame is largely associated with the time Vincent van Gogh spent here after the infamous incident of cutting off his left earlobe in December 1888.
The courtyard of Espace Van Gogh has been meticulously landscaped to resemble van Gogh's renowned painting, "Le Jardin de l'Hôtel de Dieu." This artistic recreation adds to the allure of the site, providing visitors with a visual connection to van Gogh's artistic interpretation.
On 23 December 1888, Vincent van Gogh was admitted to the hospital in Arles following the episode of self-mutilation. Recognizing the need for specialized psychiatric care, Dr. Rey advocated for Vincent's transfer to an asylum in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. The hospital in Arles primarily treated his physical injuries and was ill-equipped to address his mental health issues. However, in a surprising turn of events, Vincent's condition improved significantly in early January 1889, and he was allowed to return home for short periods of time. Feeling better, he resumed his passion for painting, creating artworks such as a portrait of Dr. Rey, which he presented as a memento to the doctor.
Unfortunately, Vincent suffered another bout of mental instability within a month, firmly believing he had been poisoned. He was readmitted to the hospital on 7 February and placed in isolation once again. Vincent remained in the hospital until early May, experiencing periods of lucidity that allowed him to paint outdoors. These artistic endeavors resulted in numerous landscapes and notable works such as "Ward in the Hospital" and "The Courtyard of the Hospital." On occasion, Vincent was granted permission to venture into town, particularly when his friend Paul Signac came to visit.
Today, the complex has been repurposed and houses the town library, exhibition spaces, souvenir shops, and a café. It offers a multifaceted experience where visitors can explore the rich history of the building while immersing themselves in various cultural activities.Espace Van Gogh stands as a testament to the turbulent period Vincent van Gogh endured in Arles. It offers visitors a glimpse into the artist's challenging mental state, his resilience, and his continued dedication to his craft even during his most challenging moments.
The courtyard of Espace Van Gogh has been meticulously landscaped to resemble van Gogh's renowned painting, "Le Jardin de l'Hôtel de Dieu." This artistic recreation adds to the allure of the site, providing visitors with a visual connection to van Gogh's artistic interpretation.
On 23 December 1888, Vincent van Gogh was admitted to the hospital in Arles following the episode of self-mutilation. Recognizing the need for specialized psychiatric care, Dr. Rey advocated for Vincent's transfer to an asylum in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. The hospital in Arles primarily treated his physical injuries and was ill-equipped to address his mental health issues. However, in a surprising turn of events, Vincent's condition improved significantly in early January 1889, and he was allowed to return home for short periods of time. Feeling better, he resumed his passion for painting, creating artworks such as a portrait of Dr. Rey, which he presented as a memento to the doctor.
Unfortunately, Vincent suffered another bout of mental instability within a month, firmly believing he had been poisoned. He was readmitted to the hospital on 7 February and placed in isolation once again. Vincent remained in the hospital until early May, experiencing periods of lucidity that allowed him to paint outdoors. These artistic endeavors resulted in numerous landscapes and notable works such as "Ward in the Hospital" and "The Courtyard of the Hospital." On occasion, Vincent was granted permission to venture into town, particularly when his friend Paul Signac came to visit.
Today, the complex has been repurposed and houses the town library, exhibition spaces, souvenir shops, and a café. It offers a multifaceted experience where visitors can explore the rich history of the building while immersing themselves in various cultural activities.Espace Van Gogh stands as a testament to the turbulent period Vincent van Gogh endured in Arles. It offers visitors a glimpse into the artist's challenging mental state, his resilience, and his continued dedication to his craft even during his most challenging moments.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Arles. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
Espace Van Gogh on Map
Sight Name: Espace Van Gogh
Sight Location: Arles, France (See walking tours in Arles)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Arles, France (See walking tours in Arles)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Arles, France
Create Your Own Walk in Arles
Creating your own self-guided walk in Arles is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Vincent van Gogh Walking Tour
"There's no place quite like it for painters. It's so beautiful and peaceful..." These words, reportedly attributed to Vincent van Gogh, emphasize the beauty and exceptional qualities of Arles with which the renowned Dutch painter had a special connection.
Vincent van Gogh moved to this town in 1888, after having worked in Paris for two years. In the late 19th century,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Vincent van Gogh moved to this town in 1888, after having worked in Paris for two years. In the late 19th century,... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.1 Km or 1.3 Miles
Arles Introduction Walking Tour
In the heart of Provence, lies the picturesque town of Arles. Thanks to its relaxing southern-French atmosphere, Arles is a pleasant place to explore. Here, apart from the distinctive Provencal character and small-town charm, you will find a wealth of historical sites.
The Ligurians settled in the area around 800 BC. Later, the Phoenicians established here a trading port, before it was taken... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles
The Ligurians settled in the area around 800 BC. Later, the Phoenicians established here a trading port, before it was taken... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.3 Km or 0.8 Miles