The Nîmes Arena, a masterpiece of Roman engineeringes
Discover the Nîmes Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Although there are larger Roman amphitheatres than Nîmes, few can match its exceptional state of preservation. They are one of the major tourist sites to visit in the Gard.
Monumental architecture at the service of entertainment
Built in the 1st century AD, the oval-shaped amphitheatre is 133 metres long and 101 metres wide, with an imposing 21-metre-high façade comprising 60 arcades on two levels. These perfectly symmetrical arches embody the skills of Roman engineers in creating monumental infrastructures for public entertainment.
With a capacity of 24,000 spectators, this amphitheatre was a central venue in the social and cultural life of the Roman city. The external façade, comprising two levels of arcades and an attic, illustrates the perfect harmony between aesthetics and functionality.
An icon of Roman architecture through the centuries
Every detail of the building, from the carefully hewn stones to the layout of the tiers, bears witness to the technical mastery of the Roman builders, who were able to create monuments that were both durable and grandiose.
This monument is a veritable icon of Roman architecture and one of the must-see Roman sites in the Languedoc region.
Today, the Nîmes Arena continues to amaze visitors from all over the world and hosts major cultural events, perpetuating its original vocation: celebrating life and spectacle.
Visiting the Nîmes Arena: practical information
The Nîmes Arena offers a range of visit options to suit everyone. You can choose between a self-guided tour, a guided tour, themed tours or even dramatised tours. For a unique experience, don’t miss the torchlight tour, or opt for a group tour for an even deeper immersion in the history of this exceptional site.
The Nîmes Arena is accessible to all, including the disabled, thanks to special facilities designed to make your visit easier.
You can also discover this monumental site accompanied by your dog, which is welcome, provided it is kept on a lead.
Explore Roman Nîmes: Maison Carrée, Tour Magne and Musée de la Romanité
Complement your visit to the Nîmes Arena with a tour of two other emblematic monuments of Roman Nîmes: the Maison Carrée, a perfectly preserved Roman temple that is now one of the ten UNESCO-listed sites in Occitanie, and the Tour Magne, a vestige of the ancient Roman ramparts, offering breathtaking views over the city.
Don’t miss the Musée de la Romanité, just opposite the Arènes. A must-see place to learn about the history and heritage of Ancient Rome in Nîmes.
What can you visite around Nîmes Arena ?
During your stay in Nîmes, take the opportunity to explore these must-see sites:
- The Maison Carrée and the Tour Magne in Nîmes
- The Musée de la Romanité, opposite the Arènes
- The Carré d’art, a contemporary art museum
- The Abbatiale Saint-Gilles, just 20 km from Nîmes
- The Ambrussum archaeological site, 33 km away
