Arènes de Lutèce

Built in the first century AD, when Paris was actually named ‘Lutetia’ or ‘Lutèce’ in French, this place once held gladiator combats for a crowd of up to 15,000 people. Today, students from the nearby high schools and colleges often congregate on the steps to eat lunch and chat. Family-friendly events are also held in the middle of the arena, so don’t be surprised if you find bouncy houses and face painters among the ruins.