Arènes de Lutèce – Lutetia Arena

The arena of Lutetia, a remnant of Roman Paris

The Paris audio-guided tour leads you to the arena of Lutetia, one of the most striking remains of the city's oldest district. This amphitheatre, built in the second century, is a rare witness of the time when Paris was still called Lutetia.

An amphitheatre of seventeen thousand seats

In the second century, people came to this arena in the centre of Lutetia to watch fights or shows, in the company of seventeen thousand other spectators. Reworked at various times, it was notably renovated in the sixth century by Chilperic, grandson of Clovis, who used it as a stone quarry. Long buried, it was rediscovered in the nineteenth century.

What there is to see

You can still make out the tiers, the arena and the remains of the stage, which testify to the public life of ancient Lutetia. Now integrated into Square Capitan, along Rue Monge, the arena is a relaxation spot where people play pétanque or ball games, between history and neighbourhood life. It is a unique remnant in the heart of Paris.

Practical information

The arena of Lutetia is along Rue Monge, in Square Capitan, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. The site is freely accessible during the square's opening hours and on the level. It is a place for walking and play amid the ancient remains.

How old is the arena of Lutetia?

The arena was built in the second century, in Roman times, when Paris was called Lutetia. It could hold seventeen thousand spectators.

What happened in the arena?

People watched fights and shows there, before thousands of spectators. It was a major place of public life in ancient Lutetia.