Orange Roman Theatre


Orange Roman Theatre
Photo by: Allie Caulfield , Creative Commons

If the thought of visiting one of the best preserved Roman monuments in France thrills you to no end, then you won’t go wrong traveling to Orange, France. This is where the Orange Roman Theatre, which is testament to the pomp and splendor of the Roman Empire (having been built in the first century AD under Emperor Augustus,) may be found. Visiting the popular tourist spot is like taking a trip back through time.

Unlike Greek amphitheaters nestled on natural slopes, Roman theaters were reinforced by a framework of piers and vaults. They were therefore constructed right in the heart of the city.

The Orange Roman Theatre in Rhone Valley reaped the distinction of being among the World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO. Reading about Roman monuments is riveting enough, but seeing massive theaters up close is awe-inspiring. An imposing structure that served as venue for entertainment for the masses and as an arena for political rhetoric or even propaganda, the ancient theaters at the town center of Orange was built to serve its Roman patrons, who sought to gain control of conquered territories.

Orange Roman Theater’s stage wall measures over 100 meters long and about 37 meters high. Niches, colonnades and statues comprise the stage wall’s facade, which aided in delivering great acoustics. Orange Roman Theater’s stage wall measures over 100 meters long and about 37 meters high. Niches, colonnades and statues comprise the stage wall’s façade, which aided in delivering great acoustics. The structure underwent restoration in the 19th century.

The ancient theater which drew a huge audience during Roman times continues to buzz today with musical events. When planning to watch special events at the theatre, you may opt to get settled at a charming hotel brimming with character nearby, before hieing off to the famous landmark and reminiscing about the golden years of the Roman Empire.

2 responses to “Orange Roman Theatre”

  1. Misty jean says:

    I’m planning on going in a few months

  2. Misty jean says:

    Oh god! This place is beautiful, I’m a mythologist! So this is the perfect place to go when I do a project there

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