Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
City of Arles (in French)
Montmajour Abbey (In French)
Heritage of Arles

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1981
Size of heritage: 65 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 4,631°
Latitude: 43,678°

Summary

Arles is a good example of the adaptation of an ancient city to medieval European civilization. It has some impressive Roman monuments, of which the earliest – the arena, the Roman theatre and the cryptoporticus (subterranean galleries) – date back to the 1st century B.C. During the 4th century Arles experienced a second golden age, as attested by the baths of Constantine and the necropolis of Alyscamps. In the 11th and 12th centuries, Arles once again became one of the most attractive cities in the Mediterranean. Within the city walls, Saint-Trophime, with its cloister, is one of Provence's major Romanesque monuments.

Location on Map


Show bigger map on Openstreetmap

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments: A Testament to Ancient Splendor

The UNESCO World Heritage site of Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments, located in the picturesque town of Arles in southern France, is a remarkable testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the Roman and Romanesque periods. This site encompasses a collection of well-preserved structures that showcase the cultural and artistic achievements of these eras.

Historical Significance

Arles, once a major Roman city known as Arelate, played a crucial role in the Roman Empire. Founded in the 7th century BC, it became an important trading center and a key port on the Rhône River. The city flourished under Roman rule, and its strategic location made it a vital hub for commerce and military activities.

The Roman monuments in Arles, dating back to the 1st century BC, include the impressive Roman Theater, which could accommodate up to 10,000 spectators, and the Amphitheater, also known as the Arles Arena, which could hold over 20,000 people. These structures served as venues for various forms of entertainment, including gladiatorial contests and theatrical performances.

During the Romanesque period, from the 11th to the 12th century, Arles experienced a cultural and artistic revival. The Saint-Trophime Church, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to this era. Its intricate sculptures and ornate portal depict biblical scenes and saints, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the period.

Current State

Today, the Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments site stands as a remarkable blend of ancient and medieval architecture, attracting visitors from around the world. The Roman Theater and Amphitheater continue to host cultural events, including concerts and theatrical performances, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of these ancient structures.

The Saint-Trophime Church, with its stunning cloister and well-preserved sculptures, remains an active place of worship. Visitors can explore the church's interior, marvel at the intricate carvings, and appreciate the serene atmosphere that has endured for centuries.

Arles itself is a charming town that has retained much of its medieval character. Its narrow streets, lined with historic buildings and quaint shops, offer a glimpse into the town's rich past. The Roman and Romanesque monuments are seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the town, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.

Preservation efforts have been undertaken to ensure the longevity of these monuments. The site is carefully maintained, and ongoing restoration projects aim to preserve the architectural integrity of the structures while allowing visitors to appreciate their historical and artistic significance.

Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments, with its exceptional collection of ancient and medieval architecture, provides a captivating journey through time. It stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of past civilizations, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the splendor of the Roman and Romanesque periods.

Hotels and places to stay

Hôtel & Spa Jules César Arles - MGallery by Sofitel

Address
Distance: 0,2 mi
9 Boulevard des Lices
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00


Le Calendal

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
Rue Porte de Laure 5
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00


Brit Hotel Acacias

Address
Distance: 0,2 mi
Rue de la Cavalerie 2
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:15 - 22:30
Weekend: closed


Best Western Atrium

Address
Distance: 0,2 mi
1 Rue Emile Fassin
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00


Hotel De la Muette

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
15, rue des Suisses
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: 8:00 - 8:00
Weekend: 8:00 - 18:00


Saint-Trophime

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
16 Rue De La Calade
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 15:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Hotel Le Regence

Address
Distance: 0,2 mi
5 Rue Marius Jouveau
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 7:30 - 21:30
Weekend: 7:30 - 21:30


Du Musée

Address
Distance: 0,2 mi
11 Rue Du Grand Prieure
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Hôtel de l'Amphithéâtre

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
5-7 rue Diderot
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 11:30 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Hôtel du Cloître

Address
Distance: 0,1 mi
18 rue du Cloître
13200 Arles
France

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed


Videos from the area

Taureau gracié (indulto)de El Juli le 07/09/2013 en Arles féria du riz

Published: September 08, 2013
Length: 11:26 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: christophe jezouin

féria du riz 6 DOMINGO HERNANDEZ pour: Enrique PONCE EL JULI JUAN BAUTISTA.

le cadre noir de Saumur aux arènes d'Arles le 27 juillet 2013 - vidéo 1

Published: July 28, 2013
Length: 38:02 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: domfa4495

le cadre noir de Saumur aux arènes d'Arles le 27 juillet 2013 - vidéo 1.

la chapelle et l'arc @ les Alyscamps d'Arles

Published: November 03, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: DomVids

la chapelle St-Accurse (1520) et l'arc roman de l'église St-Césaire le Vieux (512), dans la nécropole paléochrétienne des Alyscamps, à Arles.

Le petit train d'Arles, The small train of Arles, アルルのプチトレイン

Published: December 12, 2011
Length: 41:24 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: junk0128

Un touriste agréable, Rond-point des Arènes, 円形闘技場の横を通るプチトレインと陽気な観光客.

le dallage du tepidarium @ les thermes de Constantin à Arles

Published: November 03, 2014
Length: 00:00 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: DomVids

le dallage du tepidarium (bains tièdes) des thermes de Constantin (IVe) à Arles.

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.