Arenes de Nimes (Arena of N卯mes), Nimes (must see)
The Arena of N卯mes is a magnificent Roman amphitheatre. Erected around 100 CE, shortly after the renowned Colosseum of Rome, this arena stands as one of the world's most exceptionally preserved Roman amphitheatres. With its remarkable dimensions, the Arena of N卯mes measures 133 meters (436 feet) in length and 101 meters (331 feet) in width, featuring an arena that spans 68 by 38 meters (223 by 125 feet). Its grand outer facade soars to a height of 21 meters (69 feet) and boasts two storeys adorned with 60 arcades. Among the 400 Roman amphitheatres known to exist, it ranks among the 20 largest.
In ancient times, this grand structure had the capacity to accommodate a crowd of 24,000 spectators, who were accommodated across 34 tiers of terraces divided into four self-contained zones or maeniana. The arena served a dual purpose, functioning as a venue for public events and theatrical performances while also hosting gladiator battles that captivated the masses.
Presently, the Arena of N卯mes continues to play a central role in the city's cultural life. It hosts two annual bullfights as part of the Feria de N卯mes, attracting enthusiasts and spectators alike. Additionally, the arena serves as a captivating backdrop for various public events, including reenactments of antiquity such as "The Great Roman Games" and concerts. At its entrance, the statue of Christian Montcouquiol, known as Nime帽o II, stands proudly, earning it the name "Hero."
Notably, in 1853, an unfortunate incident occurred at the arena when balloonist M. Louis Deschamps tragically lost his life during his 120th flight. Despite adverse weather conditions that had prompted the mayor to cancel a planned parachute performance, the balloon took off as scheduled and encountered the inclement weather. Deschamps was ejected from the basket, and the balloon came down approximately half a mile away from the arena. This incident remains a somber part of the arena's history.
In ancient times, this grand structure had the capacity to accommodate a crowd of 24,000 spectators, who were accommodated across 34 tiers of terraces divided into four self-contained zones or maeniana. The arena served a dual purpose, functioning as a venue for public events and theatrical performances while also hosting gladiator battles that captivated the masses.
Presently, the Arena of N卯mes continues to play a central role in the city's cultural life. It hosts two annual bullfights as part of the Feria de N卯mes, attracting enthusiasts and spectators alike. Additionally, the arena serves as a captivating backdrop for various public events, including reenactments of antiquity such as "The Great Roman Games" and concerts. At its entrance, the statue of Christian Montcouquiol, known as Nime帽o II, stands proudly, earning it the name "Hero."
Notably, in 1853, an unfortunate incident occurred at the arena when balloonist M. Louis Deschamps tragically lost his life during his 120th flight. Despite adverse weather conditions that had prompted the mayor to cancel a planned parachute performance, the balloon took off as scheduled and encountered the inclement weather. Deschamps was ejected from the basket, and the balloon came down approximately half a mile away from the arena. This incident remains a somber part of the arena's history.
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Arenes de Nimes (Arena of N卯mes) on Map
Sight Name: Arenes de Nimes (Arena of N卯mes)
Sight Location: Nimes, France (See walking tours in Nimes)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Nimes, France (See walking tours in Nimes)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Nimes, France
Create Your Own Walk in Nimes
Creating your own self-guided walk in Nimes 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.
Ancient Roman Ruins in Nimes
Nicknamed 鈥渢he French Rome,鈥� the southern French town of Nimes is indeed the most Roman city outside of Italy. In large part, this is due to a wealth of architectural monuments that have remained here since the Roman era. Some ruined and some well-preserved, they offer a captivating glimpse into the ancient history stretching back to the early days of Roman expansion.
A true testament to... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
A true testament to... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Nimes Introduction Walking Tour
Dubbed the most Roman city outside Italy, Nimes, a small city in Southern France, is steeped in history that harks back to the days of the mighty Roman Empire.
The name itself holds clues to the city's origin, reflecting Celtic roots and connection with the local god, Nemausus, associated with a healing spring.
The hill of Mount Cavalier, once an oppidum, served as the birthplace of... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles
The name itself holds clues to the city's origin, reflecting Celtic roots and connection with the local god, Nemausus, associated with a healing spring.
The hill of Mount Cavalier, once an oppidum, served as the birthplace of... view more
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 1.8 Km or 1.1 Miles