When in Paris, go to Rome.
Say what?
Well, let me explain. France, like most of Europe, was once occupied a part of the Roman Empire. Though Paris seems thoroughly French today, there’s one amazing leftover from the time when Juliu...
When in Paris, go to Rome.
Say what?
Well, let me explain. France, like most of Europe, was once occupied a part of the Roman Empire. Though Paris seems thoroughly French today, there’s one amazing leftover from the time when Julius Caesar’s army ruled: Les Arènes de Lutèce. It’s one of my favorite Paris attractions.
Despite the name, it’s just one arena. And what an arena. Back in the day—that day being the first century A.D.— bloody gladiator games, circuses, and theatrical plays would take place for roaring crowds of up to 17,000. There are other Paris attractions that exhibit the time of Lutèce—such as the Notre Dame Crypt, and the Musee Cluny, which house architecture and artifacts from that ancient era.
Why is this my favorite attraction in Paris? It’s free. There’s never a line. It’s easy walking distance from Notre Dame and the Pantheon. You can bring a lunch, or a book, and enjoy an afternoon without bumping into tourists. You can comune with Paris of the past.
And it’s unsullied. Besides sign posted at the entrance explaining it origins, the arena is not “merchandised.” It was simply excavated (a convent and graveyard had been beuilt on the site) and opened as a public park in the late 1800s.
Today, old men will play petanque (the French version of bocce) while younger kids kick around soccer balls. The arena remains an area for leisurely enjoyment—but today, a less bloody kind.
Entrances on rue des Arenes, rue Monge and rue Navarre.
score: 1
about 23 hours ago
