Live performances and historical reenactments in the largest Gallo-Roman theatre in Gaul
The Mandeure Roman Theatre is a major historical monument in the Doubs region. Built in the 2nd century AD in the ancient city of Epomanduodurum, it could accommodate up to 20,000 spectators on its four tiers of seating. With a facade over 142 meters long, it is the largest known Gallo-Roman theatre in Gaul.
Today, this remarkable site is returning to its original purpose by hosting a season of performances and events organized by Pays de Montbéliard Agglomération. The program skillfully blends heritage and contemporary creation:
Each year in June, the theatre participates in European Archaeology Days with a special program: archaeology village, ancient craft demonstrations, children's excavation workshops, and conferences. Partnerships with historical reenactment troupes bring to life the gestures and techniques of the Gallo-Roman era.
The theatre also hosts contemporary creations: plays, dance performances, and artistic events that take advantage of the exceptional acoustics and architecture of the venue. In 2024, the company Chez Up presented "Powerful Women", three evenings of performance in September in the majestic setting of the Roman theatre.
From June to September, the site is open for free self-guided and guided tours, allowing visitors to discover the history of this monument and the ongoing archaeological excavations. An augmented reality film offers a virtual reconstruction of the theatre at its peak.
The 2026 season at the Ancient Theatre of Mandeure runs from June 3 to September 20, 2026, with a rich program of guided tours, heritage activities, re-enactments, and events for young audiences, as part of the Rendez-vous du Pays de Montbéliard. Summer 2026 will also mark the opening of the site's new interpretation center.
From June 3 to September 20, 2026, the Ancient Theatre of Mandeure hosts a season of activities, guided tours, re-enactments, and shows organized by the Heritage Animation service of Pays de Montbéliard Agglomération. The program is part of the "Rendez-vous du Pays de Montbéliard" calendar, which covers the period from March to August 2026.
Three events specially designed for young children: Wednesday, June 3, Wednesday, July 8, and Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
The ancient theatre participates in the 17th national edition of the European Archaeology Days. On the program: family workshops (making ancient jewelry, embossed decorated accessories, clay oil lamps), tours of the ancient theatre in the company of historical figures (Antiquity and 19th century), demonstrations of ancient crafts, and re-enactments.
Exceptional evening "ONE EVENING, ONE SITE: The Theatre of Epomanduodurum" — nocturnal visit and activities in the majestic setting of the ancient theatre.
Summer program of activities "On the trail of the Gallo-Romans": guided tours of the site, educational workshops, demonstrations of ancient crafts (weaving, ceramics, ancient techniques), historical re-enactments, and activities for families.
Free guided tours offered from 2 PM to 6 PM during summer 2026, with several slots including a confirmed date on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10 AM. Reservation required at 03 81 31 87 80.
Summer 2026 will mark the opening of the new interpretation center of the Ancient Theatre of Mandeure: a building of approximately 500 m² (investment of 2.7 million euros) housing reception, research, exhibition, and activity spaces. A mediation tool to present to the public the results of studies on the ancient agglomeration of Epomanduodurum.
From June to September, the site is freely accessible all year round. Free guided tours available during the summer season, by reservation.
The detailed day-by-day program is available on the "Rendez-vous du Pays de Montbéliard" agenda (March to August 2026) and on the agglo-montbeliard.fr website.
By car: The Mandeure Roman Theatre is located 8 km southeast of Montbéliard, accessible via the D437. Free parking near the site.
By public transport: CTPM bus network from Montbéliard, Mandeure stop.
Free self-guided tours from June to September. Some performances and events are free, others are ticketed depending on the program.
From June to September: free guided tours. Consult the Pays de Montbéliard Tourisme website for detailed schedules.
Pays de Montbéliard Tourisme
Tel: 03 81 94 45 60
No photo yet. Share yours!
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Aidez-nous à garder cette fiche à jour. Toute proposition est relue par notre équipe avant publication.
No rating yet — be the first!
No review yet. Be the first!
Share your experience with the community
Théâtre antique de Mandeure
Rue du Théâtre, 25350 Mandeure