Grand Roman Amphitheatre, Grand, France

The Gallo-Roman amphitheater in Grand, Vosges, was one of the largest amphitheaters in the Roman Empire with 17,000 seats. Located on the outskirts of the town, the amphitheater was built outside the ramparts of Grand in the 1st century AD. The builders of the day took advantage of the natural slopes of the valley when constructing this semi-elliptical theater. We were able to have a real sense of what the Grand Amphitheater looked like originally as the seating has been constructed over one-half of the original stone supports. The seating has been built to the original dimensions and height so that you have a real sn understanding of the size of the amphitheater.

The amphitheater was built in the was abandoned in the 4th century with the rise of Christianity. The inhabitants of Grand then used the amphitheater as a quarry and for years to come they removed many of the structure’s stones to use for other purposes.

There was also an important sanctuary dedicated to Apollo Grannus, the god of healing. You can still see the remains of the rampart that surrounded the sacred enclosure.

User Reviews

Pascal Mariage (3 years ago)
What a happy surprise to discover this site by chance, while going to the Vosges. This village with its marvelous site should be better known and better indicated. A very beautiful Gallo Roman amphitheater and a beautiful exhibition on the side. To see the very well preserved mosaic at the other end of the village, with also a beautiful exhibition hall and a very explanatory video. In addition you can walk in the village to discover pieces of the Gallo Roman site (thermal baths, tower). Coupled tickets: Grand, Domrémy: 7 euros.

Lionel M (3 years ago)
Very nice place to discover... In the depths of the Vosges...perfect for a trip on the road or half a day... The amphitheater is impressive and the exhibition next door very well done. Warm welcome. Symbolic entry €5 for adults, free for children. Of course, don't miss the mosaic at the other end of the village. Magnificent and very well preserved Gallo-Roman mosaic in a beautiful 19th century building with sumptuous framework. On-site parking at both sites.

Hervé Becherand (4 years ago)
School trip with my son, beautiful show in this historic place.

Gerard de Reus (4 years ago)
Very special location. Nice how it is made visible how large this amphitheater once was.

Richard Tonks (5 years ago)
Great amphitheatre

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Photo from Flickr, copyright Zvonimir Hrvoj

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Grand Roman Amphitheatre

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