About Arènes de Lutèce
The Arènes de Lutèce in Paris's 5th arrondissement is considered the oldest surviving structure in the French capital. This Roman amphitheater from the first century served as a venue for theatrical performances and bloody combat until the end of the third century, with room for as many as 17,000 spectators. As Christianity spread, the site fell into decline, and its stones were later removed to build fortifications. The ruins were not rediscovered until 1869, and after Victor Hugo intervened to protect the monument in 1883, a comprehensive restoration followed in 1916. Today, you can explore the historic remains, including the former lion cages.
At a glance
- Category
- Sight › Historic sites
- Rating
- no reviews yet · write a review
- Address
- Rue Monge
75005 Paris, France - District
- Quartier Saint-Victor
- Phone
- +33145350256
- Website
- equipement.paris.fr
- —
- Coordinates
- 48.84508° N · 2.35242° E
- Data quality
- confidence 0.99
- Identifier
- ID edc243d3-d6b…
Part of the tour
From the Marais to the Latin Quarter via the Islands →Location & surroundings
Toggle layersFAQ about Arènes de Lutèce
quick answersWhat are the Arènes de Lutèce in Paris?
The Arènes de Lutèce are a Roman amphitheater from the first century and are considered the oldest surviving structure in Paris. Until the end of the third century, theater performances and bloody combats took place here. Up to 17,000 spectators could attend.
What is the history of the Arènes de Lutèce after the Roman era?
With the spread of Christianity, the Arènes de Lutèce in Paris fell into disrepair, and their stones were later removed for fortifications. The ruins were not rediscovered until 1869. After Victor Hugo campaigned for the protection of the monument in 1883, the amphitheater was extensively restored in 1916.
Where are the Arènes de Lutèce located and what can you see there?
The Arènes de Lutèce are located on Rue Monge in the Quartier Saint-Victor in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. You can visit the historic remains of the Roman amphitheater there, including the former lion cages.
What can you visit around the Arènes de Lutèce?
About 200 meters from the Arènes de Lutèce in Paris, you will find remains of the Wall of Philippe II Augustus, a medieval city fortification. For a break, travelguide195 lists around 310 restaurants within 500 meters. The Arènes de Lutèce are also part of the tour "From the Marais across the Islands to the Latin Quarter."
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An ancient Roman theater, the only surviving above-ground ruins of the Gallo-Roman era in Paris (ancient Lutetia, French Lutèce ) apart from the nearby Thermes de Cluny . The theatre could hold approximately 15,000 spectators and measures some 132 m x 100 m. Built sometime in the 2nd century CE, the location of the actor's dressing room, the platform of the stage, and lapidary remains can still be seen. The remains were rediscovered in 1869, when new streets were being built. An excavation was subsequently ordered in 1883. The theatre has been preserved as a quiet archaeological park removed from the bustle of Parisian streets.
Source: Wikivoyage, „Paris/5th arrondissement“ · authors per page history · CC BY-SA 4.0