Theatre Antique d'Arles (Ancient Theater of Arles), Arles (must see)
The Ancient Theater of Arles, is a remarkable historical site located in Arles, France. Constructed at the end of the 1st century BC during the reign of Emperor Augustus, this theater stands as one of the earliest stone theaters in the Roman world. Its construction began around 40/30 BC and was completed around 12 BC, shortly after the establishment of the Roman colony in Arles.
The Ancient Theater of Arles is strategically positioned along the decumanus, a major east-west road in the Roman city grid. Its location reflects the meticulous urban planning characteristic of Roman settlements. This ancient theater holds great historical significance and has been recognized as a historical monument since 1840.
Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore and appreciate this extraordinary monument. Although only one bay of the original elevation supporting the cavea, the seating area, remains intact, it is a testament to the theater's grandeur. This surviving section was incorporated into the medieval city rampart, where it was transformed into a defensive tower. The orchestra, the circular area in front of the stage, still bears the trace of the sealing of the altar dedicated to Apollo, adorned with swans, which was an emblem of Emperor Augustus.
One of the most intriguing features of the Theatre Antique d'Arles is the presence of two columns known as "the two widows." These columns, out of the hundred that once adorned the stage wall, stand alone, evoking a sense of mystery and wonder.
In addition to its historical significance, the theater serves as a venue for various cultural events and performances. From the end of June to the end of August, it hosts the Arles and Costume Festivals, the International Photography Meetings, the Les Suds festival, the Cargo Stopovers festival, and the Peplum Film Festival. These events bring the theater to life, showcasing its versatility and continuing its legacy as a gathering place for artistic expression.
The Ancient Theater of Arles is strategically positioned along the decumanus, a major east-west road in the Roman city grid. Its location reflects the meticulous urban planning characteristic of Roman settlements. This ancient theater holds great historical significance and has been recognized as a historical monument since 1840.
Today, visitors have the opportunity to explore and appreciate this extraordinary monument. Although only one bay of the original elevation supporting the cavea, the seating area, remains intact, it is a testament to the theater's grandeur. This surviving section was incorporated into the medieval city rampart, where it was transformed into a defensive tower. The orchestra, the circular area in front of the stage, still bears the trace of the sealing of the altar dedicated to Apollo, adorned with swans, which was an emblem of Emperor Augustus.
One of the most intriguing features of the Theatre Antique d'Arles is the presence of two columns known as "the two widows." These columns, out of the hundred that once adorned the stage wall, stand alone, evoking a sense of mystery and wonder.
In addition to its historical significance, the theater serves as a venue for various cultural events and performances. From the end of June to the end of August, it hosts the Arles and Costume Festivals, the International Photography Meetings, the Les Suds festival, the Cargo Stopovers festival, and the Peplum Film Festival. These events bring the theater to life, showcasing its versatility and continuing its legacy as a gathering place for artistic expression.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Arles. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: 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.
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Theatre Antique d'Arles (Ancient Theater of Arles) on Map
Sight Name: Theatre Antique d'Arles (Ancient Theater of Arles)
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