Roman Theatre in Arles

CC BY-SA 3.0 / Bokeby

In the heart of Arles' old town, just steps from the mighty amphitheatre, lies the Roman Theatre — one of the top sights in Arles and a window into the city's imperial past. Built in the 1st century during the reign of Caesar Augustus, this ancient monument once dazzled audiences with dramatic performances and lavish spectacles. Though time has softened its grandeur, the theatre's remaining columns, terraces, and stage fragments continue to evoke the splendor of Rome's golden age.

Visiting the Roman Theatre today offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and cultural life of ancient Arles. Once capable of seating 8,000 spectators, it remains a place where history feels alive — a great place to visit on a walking tour of Arles that links the city's Roman legacy to its artistic spirit.

History and Significance of the Roman Theatre

Constructed around 10 BC under Emperor Augustus, the Roman Theatre of Arles was one of the earliest stone theatres built in Roman Gaul. Together with the nearby amphitheatre and baths, it symbolized Arles' status as a flourishing Roman colony, known as Arelate. Its design followed the classic Roman model: a semicircular seating area (cavea), a stage (scaena), and an orchestra pit for musicians. Originally, 33 tiers of seats rose in elegant symmetry, framed by marble columns and adorned with statues, creating an atmosphere of grandeur and civic pride.

In its prime, the theatre hosted comedies, tragedies, musical performances, and political ceremonies — the heart of Roman social life. But with the fall of the Empire, the theatre's fate changed. During the Middle Ages, it was repurposed as a stone quarry, its materials used to build Arles' defensive walls and medieval structures. Excavations in the 17th century uncovered what remained of its foundation, and in 1651, workers discovered the famed Venus of Arles — a marble statue that became one of the Louvre's prized classical treasures. This rediscovery reignited interest in Arles' Roman past and helped establish the theatre as one of the must-see places in Arles for lovers of archaeology and history.

Things to See and Do in the Roman Theatre

Despite its partial ruin, the Roman Theatre of Arles remains deeply atmospheric. Visitors can walk among the ancient seating tiers, imagine the crowds that once gathered here, and admire the surviving stage foundations. The two standing Corinthian columns, often called “the twins,” rise majestically above the site — silent witnesses to nearly 2,000 years of history.

Interpretive panels and guided-tours reveal the site's evolution and highlight its role in Roman urban design. During summer, the theatre springs back to life as a cultural venue for open-air concerts, plays, and dance performances, allowing modern audiences to experience its timeless acoustics. This spot is one of the best places to see in Arles for those who love to blend history with live performance and atmosphere.

How to Get There

The Roman Theatre is located at Rue du Cloître, in the heart of Arles' historic center, just a short walk from the Arles Arena. From Arles railway station, it’s a 10-minute stroll along Boulevard des Lices and Rue du Cloître. For those arriving by car, parking is conveniently available at Parking du Centre or Parking des Lices, both within easy walking distance.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Roman Theatre

• Best time to visit the Roman Theatre: Spring and early summer for pleasant weather and events.
• Entrance fee in Euros: Around 6 EUR; combined tickets available with other Roman sites.
• Opening hours: Typically 9:00–18:00; extended hours in summer.
• Official website: www.arlestourisme.com
• How long to spend: About 45 minutes to explore the site and read interpretive panels.
• Accessibility: Partially accessible; uneven terrain in some areas.
• Facilities: Restrooms and visitor information nearby.
• Photography tip: Capture the twin columns at sunset for dramatic light and contrast.
• Guided tours: Available daily; check schedules at the tourist office.
• Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés and bistros on Rue de la Calade and Place du Forum.

Is the Roman Theatre Worth Visiting?

Yes — the Roman Theatre is one of the things to do in Arles that perfectly complements a visit to the amphitheatre and cloister. It offers an evocative sense of how art, politics, and public life intertwined in Roman times. Standing among its ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of ancient applause carried by the Provençal breeze.

Nearby Attractions to the Roman Theatre

• Arles Amphitheatre – A vast Roman arena still hosting bullfights and concerts today.
• Saint-Trophime Cloister – A Romanesque and Gothic masterpiece of monastic architecture.
• Alyscamps – A hauntingly beautiful Roman necropolis lined with sarcophagi.
• Van Gogh Foundation – Exhibits exploring the artist's time in Arles alongside modern works.
• Thermes de Constantin – The remains of Roman public baths, offering insight into daily life.

The Roman Theatre in Arles appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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