The Roman Theatre of Orange (Théâtre antique d'Orange) in France is a place that every travel and culture enthusiast should visit in their lifetime. The sheer size and grandeur of the structure are awe-inspiring, and it's hard not to imagine oneself transported back to the days of the Roman Empire.
History
Built in the 1st century AD, the Roman Theatre of Orange is one of the best-preserved examples of Roman theatre architecture in the world. It was constructed during the reign of Emperor Augustus and was designed to hold over 10,000 spectators. The theatre was used for various events, including gladiatorial games, religious ceremonies, and of course, theatrical performances. The plays that were performed in the Roman Theatre of Orange were some of the most popular of the time. Some of the most famous plays performed in the theatre include "Phaedra," "Antigone," and "Oedipus Rex" by Sophocles, and "The Eunuch" and "The Menaechmi" by Plautus.
Architecture
But it's not just the performances that make the Roman Theatre of Orange so fascinating. The architecture itself is a work of art. The theatre is made entirely of stone, and the back wall is a massive 103 meters long and 37 meters high. The intricate carvings and details on the façade are a testament to the skill of the Roman architects who designed it.
The theatre's acoustics are also remarkable. Despite its enormous size, the theatre's design ensures that sound travels perfectly throughout the entire space. It's said that even a whisper can be heard from the top row of seats, making it an ideal space for theatrical performances.
The theatre is open to the public throughout the year, and visitors can take guided tours to learn more about its history and architecture. It's even possible to attend a theatrical performance in the theatre during the summer months.
Getting There Avignon Provence Airport (AVN) is the nearest airport to Orange.
ALSO READ Five Of France's Best Train Journeys