Nîmes Arena

Nîmes Arena hosted typical Roman sports throughout the reign of that mighty empire. Its stunning oval design provided 20,000 spectators on the 34 seating rows with unimpeded views of the shows. The arena's two floors and surmounting attic are covered by sixty stone arches and a network of galleries with no less than 126 staircases leading to visitors' seats.

After the Roman Empire fell, the Visigoths converted the Nîmes Arena into a stronghold. Later, during the Middle Ages, a small settlement with wells, dwellings, churches, and a castle was built inside its walls. These constructions existed until the 18th century, when they were deconstructed. In 1813, the Prefect of the Guard approved the first bull races, restoring the arena to its former role. Bullfighting is still performed there at the Feria de Nîmes.

Location: Nîmes, France