Périgueux amphitheatre

The Périgueux amphitheatre stands as an ancient Roman structure with elliptical dimensions of 141.4 meters long and 118.2 meters wide, capable of accommodating approximately 18,000 spectators during its operational period.

Built in the 1st century AD during Emperor Tiberius's reign, this amphitheatre was constructed by the Pompeia family, specifically Aulus Pompeius Dumonotus, a military tribune and prefect of workers.

This monument represents one of the largest amphitheatres in Gallia Aquitania, serving as a central venue for gladiatorial combats, public spectacles, and social gatherings in Roman society.

The site remains accessible year-round through the Jardin des Arènes, featuring explanatory panels and guided educational tours organized by local heritage institutions for visitors interested in Roman archaeology.

Medieval nuns from a nearby convent dismantled parts of the structure in 1644 to build their church, and in 1688 they destroyed Roman goddess statuettes found within the ruins, considering them pagan idols.

Location: Périgueux

Address: boulevard des Arènes

GPS coordinates: 45.18280,0.71333

Latest update: July 24, 2025 10:19