Roman Theater

The ancient theatre, one of the first Roman theatres

The Arles audio-guided tour leads you to the ancient theatre, a few steps from the amphitheatre. Built at the end of the first century BC, under the reign of Augustus, it is among the first stone theatres of the Roman world and testifies to the importance of Arles in Antiquity.

A witness to Roman grandeur

Older than the neighbouring amphitheatre, the theatre measures one hundred and two metres in diameter and had thirty-three tiers. Less well preserved than the arena, it requires a little imagination, but its central stage, once surrounded by wings and richly decorated with columns and statues, keeps all its evocative power. It was here that the famous Venus of Arles was discovered, now kept at the Louvre museum.

What there is to see

You can still make out the tiers, the stage and two standing columns, remains of the monumental decor that adorned the stage wall. Listed as World Heritage, the theatre still hosts performances and festivals today, carrying on its original purpose. It is a place where Antiquity converses with the contemporary cultural life of Arles.

Practical information

The ancient theatre is in the heart of Arles, near the amphitheatre and the summer garden. It can be visited according to its own schedule; admission is charged or included in the city pass. Opening times may vary with the season and cultural events.

When was the ancient theatre built?

It was built at the end of the first century BC, under the reign of Augustus, making it one of the first stone theatres of the Roman world.

What famous statue was found there?

It was in the ancient theatre that the Venus of Arles was discovered, a statue now kept at the Louvre museum in Paris.