Les Arènes de Lutèce, Paris, France

The Arénes de Lutèce correspond to a Roman amphitheatre-theatre built between the 1st century and the end of the 2nd century. It was able to hold about 15,000 people. According to some stories a huge statue of the emperor stood in the amphitheatre but, in order to save money, only the head was changed every time there was a new emperor.
The amphitheatre was destroyed by the barbarian invasions of the 3rd century and some materials were taken to the Ile de la Citè ( the small island where Notre Dame Cathedral stands) to reinforce its defences. Subsequently, the amphitheatre became a cemetery and then it was filled completely following the construction of Philippe Auguste's wall ca. 1210.
In the 19th century, although the quartier had long been known as Les Arènes, the exact location of the amphitheatre was unknown until 1860, during the construction of Rue Monge. 
The writer Victor Hugo lead the Societè des Amis des Arènes to prevent further destruction and restore the site. However, it wasn't until 1917 that the amphitheatre was recovered to its present state.

Opening hours: 8 am (9 am on Sat., Sun. and hol.) to 5.45 pm to 9.30 pm depending on the month.
Entrance free
How to go: Jussieu metro station








Local: 49 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris, França

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