World Travel Tips

Arles, a charming town nestled in the heart of Provence, is a true time capsule of ancient Roman civilization. Walking through its picturesque streets, I felt as if I had been transported back two millennia to the height of the Roman Empire. The city is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France, many of which have earned a prestigious place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

For history lovers, culture enthusiasts, and architecture aficionados, Arles offers a unique journey through time. I will take you on an unforgettable exploration of the city’s most iconic Roman landmarks, including the Arles Amphitheater, the Ancient Roman Theatre, the Place de la République with its striking Obelisk, and the magnificent Church of Saint-Trophime. Each of these sites carries echoes of a glorious past, where gladiators once battled, actors performed, and Roman governors held court.

Join me as I delve deep into the rich history of Arles and uncover the timeless beauty of its Roman heritage!

Arles Amphitheater: A Glimpse into the Gladiator Era

A Legacy of the Roman Empire

The Arles Amphitheater (Arènes d’Arles) is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic landmark. Built around 90 AD, during the reign of Emperor Domitian, it was one of the largest arenas in Roman Gaul, capable of accommodating up to 20,000 spectators. In its heyday, this grand amphitheater hosted fierce gladiatorial battles, thrilling chariot races, and public spectacles that kept the Roman citizens entertained.

Walking Through History

As I stepped inside the arena, I was instantly struck by its sheer scale and impressive architecture. The massive stone arches and tiered seating have withstood the test of time, allowing visitors to vividly imagine the roaring crowds cheering on their favorite gladiators. Climbing to the top rows, I enjoyed a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire city of Arles—a perspective that must have been just as awe-inspiring two thousand years ago.

While the days of brutal combat are long gone, the amphitheater remains an active cultural venue. Today, it hosts bullfighting events, open-air concerts, and theatrical performances. If you visit during the summer season, I highly recommend catching a Course Camarguaise, a traditional bullfighting event unique to the Provence region, where the goal is to snatch a ribbon from a bull’s horns rather than harm the animal.

Visitor Information

Location: 1 Rond-Point des Arènes, 13200 Arles, France
Opening Hours: Open year-round (hours vary by season, so check in advance)
Ticket Prices: Adults €10, students & children €8

The Ancient Theatre: Arles’ Cultural Heart

A Stage for the Arts in Roman Times

Just a short stroll from the amphitheater lies the Ancient Roman Theatre (Théâtre Antique d’Arles), an extraordinary cultural relic from the 1st century BC, built during Emperor Augustus’ reign. Unlike the amphitheater, which was dedicated to blood sport, this theatre was a place of artistic and intellectual enrichment. It could accommodate over 10,000 spectators who gathered to watch tragedies, comedies, and musical performances.

Echoes of the Past

Although much of the theatre’s original structure has been lost to time, remnants of its former glory still stand proudly today. The most striking features include two surviving Corinthian columns from what was once a magnificent stage backdrop. As I sat on the ancient stone benches, I closed my eyes and imagined a Roman audience captivated by a dramatic performance, with actors delivering lines in elaborate togas.

Modern-Day Events

The theatre is still in use today, hosting concerts, opera performances, and theater productions, particularly in the summer. If you have the chance, attending an evening performance here is an unforgettable experience—the soft golden light of sunset over the ruins creates an enchanting atmosphere.

Visitor Information

Location: Rue du Cloître, 13200 Arles, France
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended hours in summer)
Ticket Prices: Adults €8, students & children €6

Place de la République & The Arles Obelisk: A Roman Monument in the Heart of the City

A Testament to Roman Urban Design

At the heart of Arles lies the Place de la République, a bustling square that has been the city’s central hub for centuries. Dominating the square is the striking Obelisk of Arles (Obélisque d’Arles), a 15-meter-high ancient Roman monument that once stood at the center of a grand chariot-racing stadium.

Originally carved from Egyptian red granite, the obelisk was later rediscovered and repositioned in its current location during the 17th century. Today, it stands as a proud reminder of the city’s imperial past, surrounded by notable historical buildings such as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and the Saint-Trophime Church.

This lively square is also a great spot to soak in the local ambiance—grab a coffee at a nearby café and take in the stunning surroundings.

Church of Saint-Trophime: A Masterpiece of Romanesque Architecture

A Spiritual and Artistic Treasure

One of the most fascinating stops on my journey through Arles was the Church of Saint-Trophime (Église Saint-Trophime). Built between the 12th and 15th centuries, this church is a breathtaking blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Its intricately carved entrance is one of the finest examples of medieval stonework in all of France.

The Stunning Cloisters

Inside the church, the dimly lit interior is filled with stunning sculptures, frescoes, and towering stone columns. But the real gem is the Saint-Trophime Cloister (Cloître Saint-Trophime), an exquisitely preserved monastic courtyard with elaborately carved archways. Each column tells a different biblical story, bringing the walls to life with tales of saints and prophets.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or a spiritual seeker, this church is an absolute must-visit.

Visitor Information

Location: Place de la République, 13200 Arles, France
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Free for the church, €5 for the cloisters

Arles—A Gateway to the Roman World

Arles is not just a town; it is a living museum of ancient Roman civilization. Every street and plaza holds a story from the past, waiting to be uncovered. From the majestic amphitheater where gladiators once fought to the elegant theatre that once echoed with poetry, from the obelisk standing proudly in the city center to the spiritually rich cloisters of Saint-Trophime, each site offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

If you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply someone who enjoys walking through time, Arles should be at the top of your travel list. So, are you ready to embark on your own Roman adventure in this extraordinary city?

Tags: Arles Amphitheater, Church of Saint-Trophime, France