Gallo-Roman Theatre of Thénac
Description
The Gallo-Roman Theater is an ancient arena theater located in Thénac, Charente-Maritime. It is part of an ancient rural sanctuary with thermal baths and a spring. Likely constructed during Nero's reign and abandoned in the 3rd century, its remains were classified as historical monuments in 1990.
Measuring at least 84m wide, its unique architecture involves internal buttresses defining compartments, reinforcing its structure against earth pressure.
The theater is part of a rural sanctuary 5 km south of Saintes, existing since the Neolithic era. Believed to be built during Nero's time, it remained in use until at least the 3rd to 4th century. After abandonment, it served as a stone quarry. Excavations occurred in 1825-1828 by René Eschassériaux, published later by his grandson Eugene in 1880-1881. Additional excavations took place in the 1960s and 1990s, leading to its classification as a historical monument.
The arena theater, at least 84m in diameter, features an east-facing cavea with a semi-circular orchestra, built from local Campanian limestone. Semi-cylindrical buttresses reinforce the cavea's perimeter against earth pressure. Radiating vomitories divide the cavea into six sectors. Recent studies reveal a fully masoned stage wall with two passageways leading to the orchestra. The theater has been municipally owned since 2000, previously belonging to the state for 14 years.