Arènes (Arena)

Arènes (Arena) Review

Rivaled only by the even better-preserved version in Nîmes, this arena dominates old Arles. It was built in the first century AD to seat 21,000 people, with large tunnels through which wild beasts were forced to run into the center arena. Before being plundered in the Middle Ages, it had three stories of 60 arcades each; its four medieval towers are testimony to its transformation from classical sports arena to feudal fortification. Complete restoration began in 1825 and today it holds nearly as many as it once did. It's primarily a venue for the traditional spectacle of the corridas, or bullfights, which take place annually during the féria pascale, or Easter festival. The less bloodthirsty local variant Course Carmarguaise (in which the bull is not killed) also takes place here. It all starts with the Gardian festival on May 1, when the Queen of Arles is crowned, and culminates in early July with the award of the Cocarde d'Or (Golden Rosette) to the most successful toreador. Tickets are usually available, but for the more popular fights, it is advisable to book ahead.