Born of Greek ingenuity and reinvented by the Romans, the Roman theatre of Fréjus goes far beyond simple architecture. It is a sanctuary where the richest artistic expressions of Antiquity took place, bringing together actors, poets and musicians to the cheers of a jubilant audience. Today, this theatre, eroded by the passage of centuries and marked by the traces of time, still stands with nobility. Now refurbished, it combines its ancient remains with contemporary elements of iron and stone, offering modern spectators a unique window on a bygone era.

The Roman Theatre of Fréjus: cradle of ancient entertainment

Etymologically, the word "theater" comes from the Greek theatron, meaning "to see" or "to witness". This theater in Fréjus is also the very first performance building in the Roman city of Forum Iulii. Originally built in wood on the gentle slope of a hill, it was rebuilt in stone, probably at the beginning of our era, as part of a major urbanization project launched around 15-20 AD. Although it has lost some of its original splendor, the clearing work undertaken by the architect Jules Formigé between 1919 and 1929 allows us to imagine the elegance of this building, which could accommodate up to 2 spectators.

A scene designed for visibility

Its semi-circular plan, typically Roman, is designed so that the performers are fully visible on stage, a concept distinct from Greek theatres.

Roman performances at the Roman Theatre of Fréjus: A place of festivities and culture

During the official festivities (play), this place hosted tragedies inspired by Virgil or Seneca, comedies by Plautus and Terence, and even mimes and pantomimes that animated the city. Initially linked to religious ceremonies, the Roman theater quickly turned to secular works, where text, staging and acting followed precise and elaborate codes.

At the time, only men had the privilege of going on stage, women were excluded from performances. The theatre's 83,80-metre-long façade wall, decorated with statues and columns, served as a visual and acoustic backdrop. Unfortunately, it has almost completely disappeared, as has the stage (proscaenium), of which only the razed foundations remain. However, the piles, ruins, and the foundations of towers (Basilica), which served as lodges, are still visible.

The stands (cellar), once divided into three social sections, were largely destroyed. In accordance with the rules established by the Emperor Augustus, the seating of the audience reflected the Roman hierarchy: soldiers and civilians were separated, married men from single men, and women were relegated to higher ground. The notables occupied the places of honor, thus offering a spectacle both in the stands and on the stage.

The Roman theatre of Fréjus

A theatre at the service of the arts and social hierarchy

The semi-circular plan, typically Roman, allowed for total visibility of the artists on stage, unlike Greek theatres.

Thus, during the ludi, the Romans performed tragedies by Virgil and Seneca, comedies by Plautus and Terence, as well as mimes. Although initially linked to religious ceremonies, Roman theatre quickly turned to secular works. Text, staging and acting then followed precise and elaborate codes.

At that time, only men performed on stage, women were excluded. The 83,80-metre-long façade wall was decorated with statues and columns. It served as a visual and acoustic backdrop, but has almost completely disappeared today. The stage (proscaenium) only survives in its foundations.

However, the piles, ruins and foundations of the towers (basilicae), which served as boxes, remain visible. In addition, the stands, divided into three social sections, have been largely destroyed.

Finally, the seating arrangements, according to the rules of the Emperor Augustus, reflected the Roman hierarchy. The notables occupied the places of honor, thus creating a spectacle just as lively in the stands as on stage.

A revitalized monument: the Fréjus theater between history and modernity

Some structures remain, such as radiating walls supporting the vaults and a paved passage leading to the upper level.

Channels cut into the stone drained away rainwater. The theatre was built from Esterel sandstone, assembled with lime mortar.

Since 1997, this place has regained its original vocation. In 2001, modern stands were added to accommodate 1 spectators.

The theatre, dedicated to Philippe Léotard, also hosts the Nuits Auréliennes, a national theatre festival. This festival mixes contemporary dramaturgy with echoes of the past.

In this unique setting, the pieces transcend time and offer a rare experience in a place steeped in culture.

Opening times

PeriodsSchedule
October 1 to March 31Open Tuesday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 14:00 p.m. to 16:30 p.m.
Closed on Sundays, Mondays and public holidays.
From April 1 to September 30Open Tuesday to Sunday, including public holidays, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 14:00 p.m. to 18:00 p.m.
Closed on Mondays and May 1st.
Last access to the site 15 minutes before closing.

I attended a performance of the Nuits Auréliennes at the Roman Theatre. The setting, carefully restored, gave an incredible atmosphere to the play. Seeing contemporary works in a setting full of history was unforgettable. I will definitely come back!”

Want to experience this timeless moment? Here is all the information to prepare your visit!

The Roman theater is located in the heart of the city . Here are the different options to get there:

By car :

The theatre is located in the heart of the city and is easy to access. Public car parks are available nearby. From the A8 motorway, take the Fréjus – Centre-ville exit and follow the signs to the historic centre.

By train :

Fréjus train station is just a 15-minute walk from the theatre. Alternatively, you can take a local bus from the station for even greater convenience. Take the A8, take the Fréjus – Centre-ville exit and follow the signs to the historic centre.

By bus:

Several bus lines serve Fréjus. Check the timetables on the public transport website to find the ideal route.

Good news: the visit from the Roman theater is for free !

Every summer, the Roman Theatre vibrates to the rhythm of Aurelian Nights, an unmissable festival where theater, music and dance mingle with history. But that's not all:

• Dance shows

• Open-air concerts and cinema

• And in 2025, make way for humor with the Tchoup Comedy Club, an edition that promises A               great stand-up evening!

Whether for a cultural evening, a friendly moment or a break in the heart of history, the Roman Theatre of Fréjus promises you unique memories.

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