One would envision that ancient Roman architecture only exists in Rome.  That is not the case.  Romans sure did conquer many parts of Europe including France where we can find a Roman amphitheater known as Arena of Nimes built by the Romans around 70 A.D. in Nimes.

This arena that seats 22,000 spectators, was built as a venue for gladiatorial combat, waterborne battles, and chariot racing, according to my travel guidebook, Eyewitness Travel: Provence and Cote d’Azur.  Surely, the Roman empire did not last forever as when it collapsed in 476, it became a fortress and knights’ headquarters.  Then, in 19th century, this arena was restored, and it is considered one of the best preserved Roman amphitheaters. Nowadays, it is used to present bullfights.

Without any doubts, the arena features typical ancient Roman architecture. Embedded columns adorn between the arches creating a geometric rhythm. The arches appear to be in perfect half circles.  As I see two rows of arcades surrounding the arena, it is evident that the height is two story high.  Thanks to the restoration during the 19th century, it feels as if the arena was built not too long ago.  There were rarely any missing parts unlike the Colosseum.  As I went inside, I felt that I could envision myself watching a sports game, bullfight, or a concert thanks to preserving the seating area.

On top of admiring the Arena, I have to also add that the professor had a wonderful time giving a little performance there!

After viewing the Arena, I headed to Maison Carré, another ancient Roman building.  Viewing this building known as “square house” reminded me of viewing the Parthenon in Athens, Greece.  The building was in a perfect rectangular with columns.  Unlike the Parthenon where the columns surrounded the entire building, the columns were only in front of the building known as the façade.  Like the Arena, I learned that it is also one of the best preserved ancient Roman structure.

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