Roman Megastructures

In this first episode, we look at Arles, once called the “little Rome of Gaul,” Arles (or Arelate in Latin) occupied an important strategic position at the crossroads between Italy and Spain. In 46 BCE, Julius Caesar founded a Roman colony in this city which had supported him in his long struggle. In time, the city changed and splendid Roman buildings were built.

With its 2,185 monuments, today, Paris is the worlds most touristic capital city! But in the 1st century BCE, the home of the Gallic Parisii tribe was conquered by Romans and was gradually rebuilt into the Roman city of Lutetia. Ruins including a forum, amphitheater, and Roman baths still remain.