Roman theatre

At the centre of the “scaena”, aspects of an age-old show

When is it open: see the "to find out more" section at the bottom of the page

What's not to be missed: the southern facade, which is still intact

Where is it: Rue du Baillage

Why?… Because it's worth it: the facade shows the modelling of the Roman structure

The southern facade is still visible today, with its additional arches, the lower part of the semi-circular tiered area that hosted the guests (the "cavea") and the foundation of the wall that acted as the backdrop (scaena). Some scholars maintain the theatre was indoors. Built in the I century A.D., some years after the foundation of Augusta Praetoria , it was extended two centuries later. The Roman theatre immediately grasps your attention,

due to its southern facade (the only one to survive) that measures 22 metres high. Its magnificence is amplified by a series of buttresses and arches and is lightened by three rows with overlooking windows in various shapes and sizes. Also identifiable, the semi-circular tiers, the orchestra (with a 10 metre range) and the stage wall (with only its foundation remaining) which was once raised with a wealth of decorated columns, marble

and statues. It is estimated that the theatre could hold as many as three or four thousand spectators. During medieval times, numerous buildings were constructed nearby and demolished during modern recovery and restoration works. There is a photographic display along the southern facade showing the monument before, during and after the restoration works.