The cryptoportico of Arles, (Les Cryptoportiques in French) dating from the 1st century BC was built as foundation for the forum, which has since been replaced by the Chapel of the Jesuit College and the City Hall (where you can find the entrance)
Three double, parallel tunnels arranged in the form of a U are supported by fifty piers. Masons' marks on the stonework indicate that it was built by Greeks, probably from Marseille. Similar structures in Narbonne, Reims, and Bavay were used as granaries. The cryptoportico at Arles is, however, too damp for prolonged storage and may have served as a barracks for public slaves.
To know:
In Ancient Roman architecture a cryptoporticus (from Latin crypta and porticus) is a covered corridor or passageway. The usual English is "cryptoportico". The cryptoportico is a semi-subterranean gallery whose vaulting supports portico structures aboveground and which is lit from openings at the tops of its arche.

 Images

The Cryptoportico of Arles - France

Close [X]

 Map