Obélisque d'Arles travel guide

The Obélisque d'Arles, a striking Roman monument, stands proudly in the Place de la République in Arles. This remarkable structure dates back to the 4th century AD and originally adorned the center of the Roman Circus, an ancient chariot racing venue.

The obelisk was rediscovered in a broken state in 1676 during an excavation and was re-erected in its present location in 1676 by the orders of King Louis XIV. Standing at 20 meters tall, the granite obelisk was a symbol of Roman power and engineering excellence.

Over the centuries, the Obélisque d'Arles has witnessed numerous historical events and transformations, including the French Revolution, during which it narrowly escaped destruction. Today, it remains a central piece of Arles' rich historical tapestry, attracting visitors from around the world.

Its enduring presence offers a tangible connection to the city's illustrious Roman past and provides a majestic backdrop for modern-day Arles. Don't miss the opportunity to admire this ancient marvel on your next visit to Arles.

One of the most striking features of the Obélisque d'Arles is its origin as a Roman monolith, carved from a single block of granite. This monumental obelisk stands at an impressive height of 20 meters, making it a commanding presence in the Place de la République. The granite's polished surface gleams in the sunlight, highlighting its meticulous craftsmanship.

Another unique characteristic is its relocation history—it was originally erected in the Roman Circus of Arles, an ancient chariot racing stadium, before being moved to its current location in the 17th century. The obelisk is also adorned with a bronze sphere at its peak, which was added during its reinstallation in the modern era, blending ancient and more contemporary elements.

Additionally, the obelisk’s positioning aligns perfectly with the symmetrical layout of Place de la République, serving as a focal point that draws the eye and enhances the square's architectural harmony. These distinctive aspects make the Obélisque d'Arles not just an ancient artifact, but a dynamic part of Arles' urban landscape.

Standing at an impressive height of over 19 meters, the Obélisque d'Arles is a striking feature of the Place de la République. Originally erected during the Roman era, this Egyptian-inspired monument was rediscovered in pieces in the Rhône River during the 14th century. Remarkably, it remained submerged for centuries until it was triumphantly reassembled and erected in its current location in 1676. Notably, the obelisk is crafted from red granite, a material not native to the region, indicating the lengths to which the Romans went to import this impressive stone. An intriguing detail is the bronze sphere that once topped the obelisk, now replaced by a more modern decorative element. This monument also aligns with the city's layout, perfectly positioned to be a focal point in the urban design of Arles, emphasizing its historical significance and aesthetic grandeur.

Discover Obélisque d'Arles, a prime feature of Arles, in the vibrant Arles. Obélisque d'Arles is situated at Pl. De la République, 13200 Arles, France, just a short distance from Arles Amphitheatre and Museum of ancient Arles and Provence, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Obélisque d'Arles, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Arles, a town in France rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Explore travel trips and ideas on this town for an unforgettable adventure.

The best time to explore Obélisque d'Arles is during the spring and early autumn seasons, specifically from April to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for outdoor sightseeing without the intense heat of summer. This period also tends to have fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed and enjoyable experience at the Obélisque and other nearby attractions.

Visiting in the spring offers the added benefit of witnessing the town in bloom, with vibrant flowers and greenery enhancing the charm of Arles. Autumn, on the other hand, provides a backdrop of beautiful fall foliage, adding a unique visual appeal to your visit. Additionally, cultural events such as the Arles Festival of Photography, which usually takes place in July, may extend into early autumn, offering a chance to experience the town's artistic side.

Morning visits are recommended to avoid midday crowds and to capture the best lighting for photographs. Regardless of the season, the best time to explore Obélisque d'Arles is when the weather is mild, and the town's ambiance is vibrant yet serene, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

Obélisque d'Arles is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Arles, France. If you're flying in, Marseille Provence Airport is approximately 33.8 miles (54.3 km) away from the town center. From there, you can easily reach Obélisque d'Arles by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Arles, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Obélisque d'Arles, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Pl. De la République, 13200 Arles, France.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Obélisque d'Arles!

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Arles, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Obélisque d'Arles.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic monument in France.

Upon arriving at Marseille Provence Airport, you’ll find 2 reputable rental car companies conveniently situated near the town of Arles.

Click 'See More' to unlock other affordable car rental options in Arles.

Choosing the right accommodation near Obélisque d'Arles from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Arles can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Obélisque d'Arles, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Obélisque d'Arles, Arles boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to establishment, the top attractions in Arles offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Arles is Arles Amphitheatre, located at 1 Rdpt des Arènes, 13200 Arles, France. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the town.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Museum of ancient Arles and Provence is worth seeing when you're in Arles. It's a popular museum that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Presqu'île du Cirque Romain, 13200 Arles, France.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to The Arles market completes any trip to Arles. This establishment draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Bd des Lices, 13200 Arles, France, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The town's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Arles below to discover even more incredible places to explore.