Discover Orange's Théâtre Antique

Built during the reign of Augustus in the 1st century, the Théâtre Antique d’Orange is one of the most impressive examples of Roman engineering in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Built to entertain and bring people together, it could accommodate thousands of spectators thirsty for tragedy, comedy and a variety of shows.

Thanks to its imposing stage and ingeniously arranged tiers, the Théâtre Antique d’Orange guaranteed exceptional visibility and acoustics, which contemporary sound odyssey strives to reproduce.

The remains of this ancient theater, notably the stage wall, are a rich testimony to Vaucluse’s past. This is the only intact stage wall in Orange’s Théâtre Antique. 31 m high and 101 m wide, it defies time and continues to impress with its size and preservation.

It is one of the few surviving examples of the grandeur of the Roman era. The engravings and statues adorning the walls, although eroded by the centuries, suggest the splendor of the decorations that once adorned the rooms.

The Théâtre Antique d’Orange was at the heart of social and cultural life in Roman antiquity. The stage, the epicenter of theatrical emotion, saw a succession of orators, actors and musicians. The transmission of emotions was not left to chance: the venue was designed to amplify and project the actors’ voices.

The theater has adapted over the centuries, transforming its space to accommodate new types of shows. Whether in the form of plays or concerts, the amphitheatre continues to vibrate to the rhythm of the shows. The Théâtre Antique d’ Orange is home to the Chorégies d’Orange and the Positiv Electronic Festival.

In order to preserve the Théâtre Antique d’Orange and continue staging shows there, major restoration and preservation measures have been taken. The challenges are manifold: preserving the antique aesthetic while complying with current safety standards and making the site accessible, particularly to wheelchair users.

Modern conservation techniques are used to treat and protect the millennia-old stones of the Théâtre Antique d’Orange. These actions demonstrate our desire to harmonize contemporary use and heritage conservation.

Would you like to visit the Théâtre Antique d’Orange during your camping holiday in the Vaucluse? Here’s what you need to know:

• Opening hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm (January, February, November, December), 9:30 am to 5:30 pm (March and October), 9 am to 6 pm (April, May, September) and 9 am to 7 pm (June, July, August).
• Contact details : rue Madeleine Roch, 84100 Orange / 04 90 51 17 60.
• Tour options: audioguided tours, guided tours, immersive tours, educational workshops…