Arles Amphitheatre: France's Best-Preserved Roman Arena

Chris
Jun 16, 2020
3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

Imagine standing in the same arena where Roman gladiators fought nearly 2,000 years ago.

The Arles Amphitheatre, built in 90 AD in the heart of Provence, France, is one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world—and unlike its famous cousin the Colosseum, you can still watch live events here today.

Whether you're a history buff, traveling with kids, or just exploring southern France, this ancient amphitheater offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman entertainment and French medieval history.

History of the Arles Amphitheatre

The Roman Era (90 AD - 5th Century)

Built during the reign of Emperor Domitian around 90 AD, the Arles Amphitheatre was modeled after Rome's famous Colosseum. The structure was designed to hold over 20,000 spectators who came to watch gladiator battles, chariot races, and animal hunts.

As one of the largest Roman buildings in Gaul (ancient France), the amphitheater measured 136 meters long and 109 meters wide, featuring two levels of arcades with 60 arches. The engineering was remarkable—even today, you can see the underground passages where gladiators and wild animals once waited before entering the arena.

Medieval Transformation (5th - 18th Century)

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century, the amphitheater took on a completely different role. The structure was converted into a fortified village, with nearly 200 houses and two chapels built inside its protective walls. Medieval towers were added for defense, and for over a thousand years, this Roman entertainment venue served as a self-contained community.

This unusual transformation actually helped preserve the structure. While many Roman buildings were dismantled for building materials, the Arles Amphitheatre survived because people were living inside it.

Modern Revival (18th Century - Today)

In the early 1800s, the French government recognized the amphitheater's historical significance. The houses were carefully removed, and the arena was restored to its original purpose. The medieval towers, however, were left standing as reminders of the building's unique history.

Today, the Arles Amphitheatre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and continues to host bullfights (in the traditional Provençal style), concerts, plays, and cultural events throughout the year.

Visiting the Arles Amphitheatre

What to Expect

When you visit, you'll have the chance to:

Walk through the ancient corridors where gladiators once prepared for battle
Climb to the upper levels for panoramic views of Arles and the surrounding countryside
See the medieval towers that tell the story of the arena's transformation
Touch 2,000-year-old stone and imagine the roar of 20,000 spectators
If timing works out, watch a live event in this historic venue

Tips for Families

Let kids imagine the action: Ask them to picture gladiators entering through the underground passages
Climb to the top: The views are spectacular and kids love exploring the different levels
Look for the towers: The medieval additions make this amphitheater unique—see if your kids can spot the differences between Roman and medieval architecture
Check the event schedule: Attending a concert or performance adds extra magic to the experience

Practical Information

Location: 1 Rond-point des Arènes, 13200 Arles, France
Hours: Generally open 9am-7pm (varies by season)
Tickets: Around €9 for adults, reduced rates for children
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
Combine with: Visit the nearby Roman Theatre, just a 5-minute walk away

Why Visit the Arles Amphitheatre?

Unlike many ancient ruins that are roped off and inactive, the Arles Amphitheatre is a living monument. Standing in the arena, you can feel the continuity of history—from Roman gladiators to medieval villagers to modern audiences. For families interested in Roman history, this is a must-see stop that's less crowded than the Colosseum but equally impressive.

The surrounding city of Arles is also worth exploring, with Roman ruins throughout the town, charming cafes, and connections to Vincent van Gogh, who painted some of his most famous works here.