Cut into the hillside south of the town, the Roman theatre of Autun dates from the early 1st century AD and was one of the largest theatres in the Western Roman Empire, with a diameter of 148 metres and capacity for an estimated 20,000 spectators. The stone seating (cavea) has vanished, but the earthwork banks and the curved outline of the stage area are clearly visible, and the setting — looking out over the town and the wooded Morvan hills — makes it a good place to sit and take in the view.
The theatre was used for public spectacles, dramatic performances, and political gatherings in a city that was the pre-eminent centre of Roman power in Gaul. Free to visit and open at all times. A pleasant walk from the town centre along the base of the old walls.