Considered to be the best preserved Roman theatre in Europe, the Théâtre antique d'Orange, is 7000 seat theatre built around 40 B.C. The theatre, then named Arausio, once played a major part in Roman life, hosting performances from mime, pantomime, poetry readings and attelana and more throughout the day for all citizens to enjoy. The theatre fell into decline, and was officially closed in 391 A.D. In the 19th century, the theatre was reopened, and restoration work was done on the structure. Today, the theatre is host to the summer opera festival, the Chorégies d'Orange

The theatre is built at the base of the hill at the south end of the old town, with a vast stone stage wall (one of the only three left int he world), rising to 36m in height. The acoustics are still considered impressive by modern standards. A trail at the hill behind the theatre leads to other castles and ruins, including the Roman Triumphal Arch.

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By Road
If taking the A7 and A9 motorway, Orange centre exit
If taking the main road 7, Orange centre exit
Orange is about a 1/2 hour away from Avignon

By Rail
A bus is available from the railway station at Avignon

By Air
Airports at Avignon, Montpellier and Marseille

Last edited on Jul 8, 08 10:20 AM.
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Georges M.

Alexandre C.

Apr 3, 2009

According the elections the last 20 years and the common representations, Orange is famous in France for its support to the right-extremist party of Le Pen. When I went there in 2005, the public library of the town was close to the people not living in Orange. Despite this apparent lack of hospitality, Orange is a wonderful city and has a great historical and cultural patrimony, particularly from the roman time (antique theater, and many other vestiges...)

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Jamie N.

Oct 4, 2011

One of the magnificient sites to see in Orange, France is the Roman Theater. It has been proclaimed as a 'World Heritage Site' and is simply mind-boggling. If you are going to be in Orange, I highly recommend visiting this site.The Roman Architecture of the city is divine as well.

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