Why Arles Amphitheatre Should Be On Your France Bucket List

Discover the Arles Amphitheatre, the Roman heart of Province. From gladiator battles to medieval fortresses, learn why this UNESCO is a must-visit.

The Arles Amphitheatre, “Les Arenes” isn't just a monument to the past, it's known as a “survivor” that has played the role of a gladiator stadium, a fortified city and a world-class concert hall.

If you are heading towards the South of France, here is why this Roman titan is worth your time.

Colosseum’s Little Brother

Constructed in 90 AD, this arena was inspired by the Colosseum in Rome. It held around 20,000 fans who came here to watch gladiators settle scores.

Constructed in 90 AD, this arena was inspired by the Colosseum in Rome. It held around 20,000 fans who came here to watch gladiators. You can sit in the same stone seats where Romans sat 2,000 years ago and watch a live show even today with the same enthusiasm. Credits: Google

The most interesting, yet fascinating twist around this historical site is that the Colosseum is mostly a shell, the Arles Arena is still very much alive. You can sit in the same stone seats where Romans sat 2,000 years ago and watch a live show even today with the same enthusiasm.

Also Read: Discover The 5 Surprising Facts Of Roman Colosseum

Once A “Ghetto” Fortress

During the Middle Ages, the local population was so scared of being raided that they moved inside the arena. As a result, they built 200 houses and two churches inside the ring.

Also the arches were blocked up to create a massive circular wall. Not only this, four watchtowers were added, which you can climb even today!

It remained as a “city within a city” until the 1800s. Imagine living in a studio apartment where a gladiator once fought for his life!

Bullfighting In Arles, France, features two distinct types: the traditional type, where the participants remove reosettes from the bull's horns and the Spanish-style corrida, where the participants kills the bull. Both the events take place in Arles Amphitheatre, particularly during the Easter. Credits: Google

Also Read: Why Pula's Roman Colosseum Is A Must-Visit In Istria!

Van Gogh’s Favourite Backdrop

You can't really talk about Arles without mentioning Vincent van Gogh, a Dutch painter. The renowned artist spent a lot of time capturing the vibrant energy of the crowds leaving the arena.

While walking through the limestone arches, you can see the same “yellow” light that drove him to paint the masterpieces.

Vincent van Gogh, a Dutch painter, painted "Les Arènes" which depicts a crowd gathered for a bullfight in the ancient Roman Arles Amphitheatre. Credits: Google

Visiting Without The Crowds

To enjoy the “golden hour” moment, climb the Northern tower right before the sunset. The view over the terracotta rooftops of Arles is arguably the best in the entire area.

Another thing to keep in mind is that while visiting here, you always ask for the “pass monuments,” it gets you into the Cloisters, the Roman Theatre and the Arena for a fraction of the cost. It saves your pocket from unnecessary expenses.

During July and in August, the stone traps heat like an oven, making tourists dehydrated and exposed to sun’s rays. So, try to visit here at 9:00 AM or after 5:00 PM.

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Arles Amphitheatre, France