Théâtre antique d'Orange

The theater of Orange, an ancient Roman theater in southeast France, was built in the 1st century AD. It is owned by the municipality of Orange and home of the summer opera festival Choregies d'Orange.

It is considered one of the best preserved Roman theater in 40 BC, founded Roman colony Arausio. In the lives of residents who often spent their free time there, the theater played an important role. The Roman authorities saw in him not only a tool that helped to spread Roman culture in the colonies, but also a means to distract the population from political activities. Pantomime and poetry readings, usually all day constantly, were the predominant forms of entertainment. For the spectators, who were inspired by elaborate effects, magnificent stage sets were built. The games were open to all and free of charge.

When the Roman Empire in the 4th century auseinanderbröckelte and spread Christianity, the theater was closed 391 AD by official decree of the Church. It has been completely abandoned and plundered by the barbarians. During the Middle Ages it was a defense post. In the 16th century, during the wars of religion, it was used by the city's inhabitants as a refuge. Louis XIV called the stage facade during a visit to the most beautiful wall of his kingdom ( " C'est la plus belle de mon royaume muraille "). During the French Revolution, it served as a prison, where opponents of the revolution were imprisoned under inhumane conditions. 1824 began extensive renovations under the direction of architect Auguste Caristie. Since 1869, refer to the "antique" theater back regularly performances and concerts, including, for example, the opera festival Choregies d'Orange.

It is believed that the theater during the Roman period had about 10,000 seats. Today 7,000 people. Only the first three of the original rows of seats have been preserved.

In 1981 it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.