les Arenes de Nimes

A PERFECT CONSTRUCTION The Arena of Nîmes perfectly illustrates the level of sophistication achieved by Roman engineers in the design and construction of this type of highly complex building. Indeed, it exhibits perfect symmetry. Oval in shape, it measures 133 meters long and 101 meters wide, with an arena measuring 68 by 38 meters. Standing 21 meters high, its exterior façade has two stories of 60 superimposed arcades and an attic, separated by a cornice. At the top, projecting stones with holes held masts from which a velum was suspended—an immense canvas spread over the spectators to protect them from the sun and inclement weather. Originally, all the arcades on the ground floor were open to serve as entrances and exits. Larger Roman amphitheaters are known, but this is the best preserved of them all. A COMPLEX ARCHITECTURE In Roman times, the monument could accommodate 24,000 spectators, distributed across 34 rows of tiered seating arranged in four independent sections, or maeniana. Each section was served by a gallery and hundreds of staircases and passageways called vomitoria. This ingenious layout prevented any risk of overcrowding when spectators arrived. The amphitheater's design ensured everyone had a clear view of the arena. Several underground galleries beneath the arena formed the backstage area. Trapdoors and a lift system allowed scenery, animals, or gladiators to be brought into view during performances. THE BAS-RELIEFS AND SCULPTURES On one of the bays, two bull protrusions with folded legs can be seen on either side of the arch. Those on the upper level, better preserved, supported a triangular pediment. This bay, opening onto the city side, provided direct access to the first rows of seats facing the short axis of the arena. Another bas-relief decoration on one of the pilasters, facing the Palace of Justice, depicts a she-wolf suckling two children, Romulus and Remus, the mythical founders of Rome. Unlike the Roman model, the Nîmes she-wolf has her gaze turned towards the children. TWO DISCOVERY AREAS "Gladiator Quarter" This area allows you to discover the weapons and attire of these valiant fighters. You can observe a gladiator in full costume, ready for battle. You then witness a virtual combat demonstration between a retiarius and a secutor in a recreated setting of the Arena, thanks to optical theater technology. Three short films allow you to witness the training of the provocator and gladiatorial combats between a retiarius and a secutor, and a Thracian and a murmillo.