Cultural
Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments
Arles, France
Inscribed 1981
Located in the Bouches-du-Rhône department of Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur in southern France, Arles preserves an exceptional ensemble of Roman and Romanesque monuments that testify to its significance as a major city from antiquity through the medieval period. The site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1981 in recognition of these outstanding architectural remains, which include the Roman amphitheater, theater, cryptoporticus, and the Romanesque Church of Saint-Trophime with its celebrated cloister. These structures demonstrate the continuous urban development and cultural importance of Arles, particularly during the Roman period when it served as a vital port and administrative center, and later as an important pilgrimage destination in the medieval era. The monuments are characterized by their architectural quality and state of preservation, offering valuable evidence of construction techniques and artistic traditions spanning several centuries. The integration of these structures within the historic townscape contributes to the overall authenticity and historical significance of the ensemble.
Location
Arles, France
Inscription
1981
