An exceptional amphitheatre

A perfect construction

The Nîmes Arena dates back to the end of the 1st century AD and is a perfect illustration of the degree of perfection attained by Roman engineers in designing and constructing this type of extremely complex building.  It is oval in shape, and measures 133m long, 101m wide and 21m high.
Two quarries, Barutel and Roquemaillère (located near the town), were used to supply the stones for the construction.

The façade consists of two levels of sixty superposed arches and an attic, separated by a cornice. At the top, pre-drilled stones were positioned to overhang so that long poles could be positioned over the arena. A huge canvas canopy was then attached to these poles, thereby providing protection for the spectators against the sun and bad weather.

On top of one of the bays, we can see the fore-body parts of two bulls with their legs folded either side of the arch. Those on the upper level, which are better preserved, bear a triangular pediment. This bay, which faces the town, offered direct access to the lower terraces opposite the small end of the arena.

Another decoration in low-relief, located on one of the pilasters opposite the “Palais du Justice” (Law Courts), shows a she-wolf giving milk to two children, Romulus and Remus, the mythical founders of Rome. Unlike the Roman version, the Nîmes she-wolf is looking towards the children.