Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles, Arles

The Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles are two distinct but interconnected historical sites that showcase the rich heritage of the city.

The Town Hall of Arles, is a remarkable building completed in 1676 and recognized as a historical monument. With its three floors, the town hall exhibits architectural splendor and exquisite craftsmanship. As visitors enter the ground floor, they encounter a vestibule with a low vault, showcasing the mastery of French stereotomy. The vault is composed of two intersecting barrel vaults, connected to the walls with elegant arches. Despite its impressive span of 15 meters, the vault demonstrates minimal deflection, showcasing the technical skill of the artisans who constructed it. The ground floor serves as a testament to the art of stereotomy, highlighting its characteristic features such as the lowering, interplay with the masonry, and the beauty of its exposed intrados.

Ascending the main staircase, visitors are greeted by two lion sculptures created by Jean Dedieu, further enhancing the grandeur of the space. The staircase also features a replica of the Venus of Arles, an ancient Greco-Roman sculpture originally discovered in the ancient theater of Arles. The original work is now housed in the Louvre, but a modified copy by Girardon adorns the staircase, adding a touch of classical beauty to the surroundings. The first-floor facade boasts a balcony framed by double columns, while the second floor is adorned with a central pediment displaying the sun, the symbol of Louis XIV, accompanied by decorative balusters and pots-à-feu. These ornate details contribute to the overall elegance and historic significance of the Town Hall.

Adjacent to the Town Hall are the Cryptoportics of Arles, an underground network of chambers that date back to the Roman era. These captivating subterranean spaces, located beneath the modern city center, have origins that can be traced back to the first Roman colony established in Arles in 46 BC. They may even incorporate earlier Greek caverns, adding to their historical depth. The Cryptoportics offer a unique opportunity to journey through 2,000 years of history. Visitors can descend into these vaulted chambers, which were likely used as shops or storage cellars during the time of the Roman forum. Exploring the Cryptoportics provides a tangible connection to the ancient past and offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and commercial activities of the time.

Together, the Town Hall and Cryptoportics of Arles offer a captivating exploration of the city's history. The Town Hall's architectural grandeur and artistic adornments symbolize the prestige and power of the city's administration, while the Cryptoportics provide a glimpse into the daily life of ancient Arles.