Roman amphitheatre of Purpan-Ancely

The Roman amphitheatre of Purpan-Ancely is an ancient structure in Toulouse with surviving sections of seating tiers, passageways, and stage areas. These remains reveal how Romans built and used large public gathering spaces.

The amphitheatre was built in the first century AD as part of Roman Tolosa and functioned for hundreds of years as a venue. Its decline began as medieval times arrived and people stopped using ancient structures.

The amphitheatre brought together people from all levels of Roman society to watch entertainment and witness public spectacles. The arrangement of seats reflected the social order that governed daily Roman life.

The amphitheatre sits slightly outside the city center and is easiest to reach on foot or by short local transport. The remains sit in a park setting and are most comfortable to visit in good weather.

This amphitheatre is the only ancient structure in Toulouse where the complete ground outline remains visible, making it especially valuable for understanding Roman city design. This intact perimeter allows visitors to easily grasp the actual size and form of such a building.

Location: Toulouse

Opening Hours: Sunday 14:00-17:00; November-December off; January-April off

Website: https://saintraymond.toulouse.fr/L-amphitheatre-romain-de-Toulouse-Purpan-et-la-piscine-des-thermes-d-Ancely_a96.html

GPS coordinates: 43.61479,1.39769

Latest update: December 8, 2025 21:01