Arles Cryptoporticus

Photo of Arles Cryptoporticus
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Description

The cryptoporticus (covered corridor or passageway) of Arles, dating from the 1st century BC was built as foundation for the forum, which has since been replaced by the Chapel of the Jesuit College and the City Hall. Three double, parallel tunnels arranged in the form of a U are supported by fifty piers. Masons' marks on the stonework indicate that it was built by Greeks, probably from Marseille. Similar structures in Narbonne, Reims, and Bavay were used as granaries. The cryptoporticus at Arles is, however, too damp for prolonged storage and may have served as a barracks for public slaves. The cryptoporticus of Arles is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with other Roman buildings of the city, as part of the Arles, Roman and Romanesque Monuments group.

Roman Sites in FranceUNESCO World Heritage Sites in FrancePrehistoric and archaeological sites in FranceAll sites in ArlesRoman Gaul

Address
Rue de la République 35, Arles, France

Established
0-100 BC

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