Visit the Théâtre antique d’Orange : tickets, prices, schedules

In the "Cité des Princes"? Go to the Ancient Theatre of Orange, the best preserved of the Roman Empire!

It’s headed south of France, in Orange! Located near Avignon in the department of Vaucluse, this small town has about 30,000 inhabitants. Like any city in the South of France, there is a sweetness of natural and pleasant living, which promises you a stay that you will not forget.

You will have as much to do and to discover in Orange, especially if you are lovers of good wine and history! Indeed, the city of Orange has a historical heritage, dating from the Roman era, extremely rich. Its ancient theatre and its triumphal arch, which is part of the UNESCO world heritage, are two perfect examples. A tip: head from your arrival to the incredible Théâtre antique d’Orange, known to be the best preserved in the West! With its gigantic scene wall, it is a unique testimony of the Roman presence in Provence.

Whether you’re a fan of history, passionate or simple curious, you’ll simply be subjugated by the conservation of this building. So, here’s all you need to know to visit the Ancient Theatre of Orange!

History of the Ancient Theatre of Orange

At the time, Orange is a Roman colony called “Arausio” which knows important development during the reign of the Emperor Augustus . It is also he who, in a desire to entertain the public and to spread the Roman culture, gives birth to the Ancient Theatre. With a capacity of nearly 9,000 spectators, the Theatre then integrates a public divided according to the social rank. The first rank is reserved for knights, while the middle one welcomes the merchants and Roman citizens. All the way up, the last rank he brings together prostitutes and slaves.

In the Middle Ages, representations that have become very violent are now prohibited. The church then decided to transform the antique theatre into a place of defence and refuge during the wars, many at that time.

It was only in the nineteenth century that the theatre regained its scenic vocation. Inscribed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site since 1981, it has been hosting festivals, shows, concerts and one man shows that like to join its boards. Weared by a unique setting, each representation in our midst promises a unique experience!

What to see and do at the Théâtre antique d’Orange?

In order to organize and prepare for the best to visit the Théâtre antique d’Orange, we recommend downloading the application on your phone or tablet. You will find 1h20 of guided visits, as well as many thematic brackets to discover the place, the Roman Antiquity and the world of shows.

Also know that the audio-guides are free and you will be handed over to your arrival. Thanks to this, your visit will be accompanied by enriching comments and it will only be better!

Visiting the Ancient Theatre of Orange is visiting the best preserved Roman theatre of the country and one of the most beautiful heritages of Imperial Rome.

If you are going to visit the Théâtre antique d’Orange, you can discover:

- The exterior façade (Le Postscaenium) King Louis XIV described him as “the most beautiful wall of his kingdom.” With its 103 meters long, 1.80 meters thick and 37 meters high, it is just impressive. - The stage wall (Frons scaenae) : very important for the diffusion of sound, it was, in the Roman era, richly decorated with statues, columns, and multicolored marble plates. - Les gradins (la cavea) They were built on the hillside to facilitate their construction. - Orchestra It was in this 19-metre-diameter half circle that the choirs were posted at the time. - The scene : 61 meters wide and 13 meters deep, it is framed by two towers called " basilicae". - The stage roof : Completed in 2006, this modern window was set up after extensive research, to replace an old wooden roof, which had been destroyed by a fire in the fourth century.

Right in front of the theatre, you will find the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire d’Orange , which exhibits collections of Antiquity in the nineteenth century.

How do I go to the Théâtre antique d’Orange?

There are several ways to get to the Théâtre antique d’Orange, located rue Madeleine Roch, in the city centre of Orange.

By car

• From the highways A7 and A9, take the Orange exit
• From RN 7, take the Orange Center exit.

Note : a parking lot is located near the antique Theatre of Orange.

By train

• In TGV, the closest train station to the Ancient Theatre of Orange is TGV station in Avignon, located 29 km away. From there you will find buses that will lead you to Orange.
• In TER, you will arrive at the TER station of Orange, which is a 15-minute walk from the Théâtre antique d’Orange.

Schedules & Rates of the Ancient Theatre of Orange

HORARI

The Antique Theatre and the Museum of Art and History are open every day throughout the year.

Antique Theatre

• January, February, November, December 9:30-16:30
• March, October 9:30-17:30
• April, May, September 9am-6pm
• June, July, August 9h-19h

Note : These times can be changed in the evening during rehearsals and shows.

Art and History Museum

• January, February, November, December 9h30-12h / 1h-16h30
• March, October 9:45-17:30
• April, May, September 9:15-18h
• June, July, August 9:15-19:00

Note : closure of the grids 15 minutes before closing / distribution of the audioguides ends 1h before closing the site.

RATES

Theatre Ticket + Art and History Museum with audioguide

• Rate : 9,5 €
• Reduced (7-17 years old, students, Pass Education and job seekers): € 7.5
• Special 1 hour before closing (without audioguide): 8.5 €
• Family (two adults and two children): 30 €
• Rates increased by 2€ Augustals (from 1 to 8 May, from 30 May to 2 June, from 8 to 10 June, from 14 July to 15 August 2019)
• Free for children under 7 years of age, journalists, holders of a disability card and an attendant

Art and History Museum Billet with audioguide

• Rate : 5,5 €
• Reduced price : 4,5 €

Virtual Tour of Theatre

• Single rate : +5 € on the ticket price

Note : you can buy your ticket in advance directly on the site of the Orange Antique Theatre. Your e-billet will then be imperative to print in advance and show at the entrance of the museum.