Palais Gallien

J. Daubigny. Vue des Ruines de l'amphithéâtre. avant 1787

It is one of the largest Gallo-Roman amphitheatres in Aquitaine. It is the only ruin of ancient Burdigala that is still visible. Built in approximately the 1st century AD, at that time it was located on the outskirts of the ancient city.
Elliptical in shape, built from brick and limestone, it measured 132m by 100m and was fitted with wooden seating. It could hold approximately 20,000 spectators who came to watch games and gladiator battles.

Vue du Palais Gallien depuis le sud-est

Its name, given to it in the Middle Ages, evokes the memory of a legendary princess named Galienne, the wife of Emperor Charlemagne, who had this palace built for her.
Its name also refers to the Roman Emperor Gallien, who reigned between 253 and 260.
Burned down in the 3rd century, yet still in good condition in the 13th century, it was nearly completely destroyed during the French Revolution. It was one of the first monuments to be listed as a Historic Monument in 1840.