Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments, World Heritage archaeological area of Roman and Romanesque monuments in Arles, France

This site includes a Roman amphitheater, theater, basilicas, and medieval churches scattered throughout the historic center of Arles. These structures span from ancient Roman times through the medieval period, creating a layered archaeological landscape.

The site has been on the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1981, when it was inscribed under criteria (ii) and (iv). The protected area covers 65 hectares of Arles' centre, bounded by the Rhône and the boulevards Clemenceau, des Lices and Émile-Combes, with the Alyscamps necropolis extending to the south-east. The name was changed in 2006, when the abbey of Montmajour was excluded because of its distance from the rest of the property.

Saint-Trophime's portal, carved in the 12th century, shows the Last Judgment and the patron saint's relics; its cloister mixes Romanesque arcades with later Gothic bays. The church stands on the site of an earlier basilica and served pilgrims on the Via Tolosana to Santiago de Compostela.

The major monuments are within walking distance and can be explored by strolling through the old town. Using a map or guide helps you locate the scattered sites easily.

Underground galleries from the 1st century BCE lie beneath a former Jesuit chapel, supporting the ancient marketplace. This hidden structure shows Roman engineering skill and often goes unnoticed by visitors.