The amphitheatre in Saintes, in west France, was built in the Roman period as a place for events to take place that would be attended by the whole town, and included gladiatorial battles and fights with wild animals.
The approach to the arena from the centre of Saintes follows a short walk through a wooded valley, called the Valley of the Arene.
Discover the amphitheatre in Saintes
France This Way review: although the amphitheatre in Saintes is much more of a ruin than some of those that can be seen in France, for example at Nimes and Arles, it is still interesting to visit as you explore the town
Construction of the amphitheatre in Saintes began under the Emperor Tiberius, and was completed under the Emperor Claudius, around 40 AD.
The arena remained in use for a couple of centuries, but by the start of the fourth century AD it was abandoned, with rock from the amphitheatre being used for various building projects including for building a defensive wall around Saintes.
It was much later, in the mid-19th century, that the monument was identified as being of historic importance and the first stages of its protection and renovation were implemented.
The principal difference between the amphitheatre at Saintes and most other Roman amphitheatres is that it was constructed in a natural valley, carved into the rock where necessary, and in places constructed on piles of rock, so there is no need for a high stone wall around the structure.
These rows of stone arches are a key feature of most other amphitheatres, but in Saintes you will see only a short section of wall containing two rows of arches, where the valley was "U" shaped.
The amphitheatre is quite substantial in size, about 126 metres long and 102 metres wide, and was large enough to hold around 15000 spectators.
The other difference between the arena in Saintes and other amphitheatres is that less renovation work has been carried out, so most of the seating areas are now simple banks of grass, divided in sections by walls.
Attractions nearby
You can also see a Roman triumphal arch and several other interesting buildings in the town - see the guide to Saintes for more information.
See more Ancient Monuments in France. You can find more travel ideas in the Charente-Maritime guide and the Poitou-Charentes guide.
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Places to visit near Amphitheatre in Saintes
Saintes
The town of Saintes is very interesting, with an extensive old-town to explore and a Roman amphitheatre
Saintes guide
Saint-Savinien
In an attractive setting on the banks of the Charente River, Saint-Savinien also has a few historic sites of interest
Saint-Savinien guide
Pons
Pons is a quiet small town overlooked by a castle tower that is a pleasant place for a stroll
Pons guide
Saint-Jean d'Angely
The historic centre of Saint-Jean d'Angely has several notable monuments including the abbey church and some medieval houses
Saint-Jean d'Angely guide
Cognac
Cognac has an extensive old twon and town centre, nice riverside walk and lots of Cognac distilleries. Definitely recommended.
Cognac guide
Mornac-sur-Seudre
Not far from Royan the centre of Mornac-sur-Seudre is attractive and very pleasant to stroll around
Mornac-sur-Seudre guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Charente-Maritime
The French version of this page is at Amphitheatre in Saintes (Francais)