Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles

Town Hall in Arles

Arles Cryptoportiques
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bjs

In the heart of Arles, two extraordinary landmarks capture the city's layered history — the stately Town Hall and the mysterious Roman Cryptoportics. Together, they offer a rare glimpse into how Arles has evolved from its Roman origins to the refined grandeur of the 17th century. Standing proudly on the Place de la République, the Arles Town Hall dazzles with its intricate stone vaults, elegant symmetry, and artistic embellishments, while beneath the same square, the Cryptoportics form a labyrinth of ancient tunnels that whisper stories from more than two thousand years ago.

The combination of these sites makes this spot one of the top sights in Arles, appealing to both history enthusiasts and architecture lovers. Exploring them feels like moving through time — from the sunlit opulence of Louis XIV's France to the cool, shadowy chambers of the Roman era. Their proximity to the square's other UNESCO-listed landmarks makes them a highlight of any walking tour of Arles.

History and Significance of Arles Town Hall and the Cryptoportics

The Arles Town Hall was completed in 1676 during the reign of Louis XIV and stands as a triumph of French Baroque civic architecture. Built without the use of supporting timber, its stone vaulting exemplifies advanced stereotomy — the precise cutting and fitting of stones. The vestibule, with its intersecting barrel vaults, remains a masterpiece of mathematical and artistic precision, showcasing the engineering mastery of the time. The grand staircase, guarded by two sculpted lions by Jean Dedieu, features a replica of the Venus of Arles — the Roman statue discovered nearby in the city's ancient theatre — linking the building's classical inspiration to its Roman past.

Just beneath the square, the Cryptoportics of Arles tell a much older story. Built in 46 BC following the city's establishment as a Roman colony, these subterranean galleries likely served as storage or support structures for the Roman forum above. The network of stone vaults, arranged in a U-shaped formation, reflects Roman ingenuity in architecture and urban planning. Rediscovered in the 18th century, the Cryptoportics remain among the most atmospheric archaeological sites in Arles, allowing visitors to walk beneath the city's historic core and imagine life in the ancient colony of Arelate.

Things to See and Do in Arles Town Hall and the Cryptoportics

Start your visit at the Arles Town Hall, entering through the grand vestibule to admire the vault's remarkable geometry. The sweeping staircase and its statues provide one of the best perspectives on Arles' blend of art and architecture, while the replica of the Venus of Arles reminds visitors of the city's deep classical roots. Step outside to appreciate the façade, with its sun emblem and ornate balustrades celebrating Louis XIV's reign.

Descending into the Cryptoportics below the Place de la République offers a complete contrast — a cool, echoing world of Roman stonework hidden beneath the modern city. As you walk through its long, dim corridors, you can trace the layout of Arles' ancient forum and sense the scale of Roman construction that supported daily trade and life above. The lighting enhances the mystery, making this one of the best places to visit in Arles for those fascinated by the layers of history that lie beneath the surface.

How to Get There

The Arles Town Hall and Cryptoportics are both located on the Place de la République, in the center of Arles' old town. They are a short 10-minute walk from Arles railway station. For those arriving by car, Parking du Centre and Parking des Lices provide convenient parking within a few minutes' walk. The entrance to the Cryptoportics is near the square, while the Town Hall is immediately recognizable by its clock tower and elegant façade.

Practical Tips on Visiting Arles Town Hall and the Cryptoportics

  • Best time to visit Arles Town Hall and the Cryptoportics: Mid-morning or late afternoon when the square is less crowded and temperatures are cooler underground.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: The Town Hall is free to enter; admission to the Cryptoportics is usually included in the Arles monuments pass (around €9–€12).
  • Opening hours: Typically open daily; hours vary seasonally.
  • Official website: www.arlestourisme.com
  • How long to spend: Around 45 minutes for both sites combined.
  • Accessibility: The Town Hall is accessible; the Cryptoportics involve steps and uneven flooring.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and cafés available nearby in the Place de la République.
  • Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the sunlit façade of the Town Hall and the shadowy arches of the Cryptoportics below.
  • Guided tours: Available through the Arles Tourist Office; guided visits provide valuable insight into the stereotomic design and Roman engineering.
  • Nearby food options: Several cafés and bistros surround the square, offering ideal spots to relax after your visit.

Is Arles Town Hall and the Cryptoportics Worth Visiting?

Yes — both sites offer a captivating look at Arles' dual identity as a Roman colony and a Baroque city of art and governance. The Town Hall's architectural precision and artistic flourishes complement the stark, utilitarian beauty of the Cryptoportics below. Visiting them together creates a powerful sense of time travel, connecting the modern city to its ancient foundations. For history lovers and curious travelers alike, this is one of the things to do in Arles that truly reveals the city's enduring legacy.

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The Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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Visiting Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles

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