Alba is a pleasant small town west of Montpelier, with a semi-ruined castle and narrow streets. Its most interesting feature lies a mile or so away from the town: a vast Roman amphitheater alone in what was obviously a significant Roman settlement. It is part museum and part extensive location for pompous declaiming centre-stage by visitors; for discovering hypocausts; and for working out the complex sanitary arrangements.

Back in the village, in a network of short lanes and small open spaces, was this rather pleasing sundial. At first sight it looks endearingly wonky, but it actually seems carefully crafted to fulfill its purpose.

GGS Category: Vertical Sundial; Village Sundial; Rustic Sundial; Sundial France; Sundial Europe

All photos: Keith Salvesen