\b0 Nεmes derives its name from \i Nemausus\i0 , a Celtic god linked to a spring. Romanized since the f
irst century BC, Augustus made it a colony for veterans and it developed into one of the finest cities of the Roman empire. A temple (now known as the \i Maison carrΘ\i0 , or Square House) dedicated to Augustus's two young children dates from this period
and is one of the most harmonious and best-preserved of the religious buildings of Roman Gaul. Likewise, the amphitheater of the \i ArΦnes\i0 , now once again used to stage performances, is one of those (along with the amphitheater in Arles) that offers
us the clearest picture of the civilization that gave birth to France. Other remains from this time are to be found at Vaison-la-romaine, Gianum, Arles, and \b \ATXul1024 \cf4 \ATXht20 Orange\b0 \ATXul0 \cf0 \ATXht0 .\par
