Theatre Antique, Orange
One of the best examples in Provence of a Roman amphitheatre
Orange boasts the best preserved Roman Amphitheatre in the western world.
Built in the 1st century AD by Emperor Augustus, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's fabulous stage wall provides amazing acoustics. As a result, one of the most famous opera festivals in the world is held year each July.
The facade of the theatre is 103 metres long, 1.8m thick and 37 metres high and was described by Louis XIV as the "most beautiful wall in my kingdom" and it's easy to see why once you're there. The stage is even more impressive with it's huge wall, which in Roman times would have had moving parts and accessories added to it to enhance the feeling of space and perspective.
The amphitheatre is open to visitors and also hosts a variety of events throughout the year.
Opening dates & times:
- January, February, November, December: 09:30-16:30
- Mars, October 09:30-17:30
- April, May, September: 09:00 - 18:00
- June, July, August: 09:00 - 19:00
- These schedules can be modified in the evening and during rehearsals shows.
Prices: €9.50 for adults, €7.50 for concessions. Family packs: If 2 adults & 1 child pay, the second child goes free. Free for under 7's. These prices also include entrance to the museum.
A smartphone app to guide you through the sites are available for iphones, ipads and Android.
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Directions
The Ancient Theatre is located in the city centre of Orange, 29 km from Avignon. By car: A7 and A9 Orange RN 7 or exit Orange center exit. Parking nearby. By bus: from the train station. By train: TGV station in Avignon and Marseille. By plane: Avignon airport, Marseille and Montpellier. In TER : less than 15 minutes walk from the station TER SNCF.
