Roman theatre of Orange.
Introduction
Named after the Celtic god Arausio, Orange was the site of the worst Roman defeat in Gaul in 105 BCE. The city was founded by the Romans in 35 BCE, and from this period survive the Theatre and the Triumphal Arch, one of the best preserved in the world. Both are on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The County of Orange, founded under Charlemagne, evolved into a principality in 1163. The title of Prince of Orange passed to the House of Nassau, future rulers of the Netherlands, and is now carried by the Dutch crown prince.
The annual Chorégies opera festival has been held in the Roman theatre since 1860.
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