At the foot of the Col du Grand St-Bernard, Martigny has long been a commercial crossroads. A small, primarily residential town backed by vineyards, it calls itself the "Art City," and indeed, its main attraction is the delightful Fondation Pierre Gianadda museum, which holds an intriguing collection of modern and ancient art. Sculptures by Swiss artists are scattered throughout the town. Martigny is also home to a number of Gallo-Roman ruins, including thermal baths, living quarters, and, most impressively, an amphitheater that once seated up to 5,000 people for gladiator events. If possible, time your visit to catch an amphitheater concert, an open-air movie, or the "Combat des Reines" (cow fights) in the fall.
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