Beaucaire is known as the "cradle of Camargue bullfighting." It's therefore quite natural to find bullrings in this stronghold of bullfighting tradition. Known today as the "Arènes Paul Laurent," the Beaucaire bullring holds a vital place in local culture. Camargue bullfights, bullfighting traditions, shows, and major festivals still punctuate each season in this iconic amphitheater of the Gard region.
Paul Laurent Arena in Beaucaire
The next Camargue races
Courses Camarguaises – Trophée Niveau Avenir à Beaucaire
Le 12 July 2026
Arenas deeply linked to the bullfighting history of Beaucaire
The passion for bullfighting is ancient in BeaucaireFrom the 18th century onwards, the city hosted events related to Camargue bullsBetween 1829 and 1835, the first races were organized within the grounds of Beaucaire Castle. Wooden arenas were then built before a more permanent structure was erected in the 19th century.
The first building dedicated to bullfighting was built in 1855. From 1885, Beaucaire built the stone amphitheater as we know it today, before completing the work in 1932.
The arena was then named after Paul Laurent, a famous bull breeder from Beaucaire, born in 1905. Paul Laurent is a key figure in Camargue bullfighting. He greatly contributed to the promotion of local bullfighting traditions through his herd, founded in 1944.
The specific features of the Paul Laurent arena in Beaucaire
The Beaucaire arenas are distinguished by their strong Camargue identity. Unlike the Roman amphitheaters of Nîmes or Arles, these are modern arenas built to accommodate Provençal bullfighting traditions and popular shows.
Their elliptical arena measures approximately 56 meters by 33 meters. The arena has undergone several transformations over time to improve public access and event organization.
Located near the Rhône, their open architecture and warm atmosphere offer a true immersion in the culture of the South. During the Camargue racesThe spectators experience the exploits of the raseteurs as close as possible to the track.
The arenas and the birth of the modern Camargue bullfight
Beaucaire played a major role in the evolution of Camargue bullfighting. At the end of the 19th century, this traditional practice gradually became professionalized. The bullfights organized in the Beaucaire arenas contributed to the structuring of the rules and codes of this discipline.
The town has also given birth to some of the sport's greatest figures. The raseteur Julien Rey, nicknamed "Ace of Aces," was born in Beaucaire in 1903. In 1929, Beaucaire created the prestigious Palme d'Or, which has become one of the most renowned trophies in the world of Camargue bullfighting.
Even today, the Beaucaire arenas occupy a major place in the world of Bouvine.
They attract enthusiasts of bullfighting traditions from all over the Camargue.
The Beaucaire bullring today
From April to October, the arenas come alive with Camargue-style bullfights, abrivados (bull runs), shows and festive events. They also host concerts and popular entertainment during the city's major festivals.
The famous Madeleine Festivals These events are the unmissable summer highlight in Beaucaire, making the bullring one of the town's main gathering places. In a typically Provençal atmosphere, locals and visitors come together to celebrate Camargue traditions. Costumed parades and bullfighting shows are among the highlights.
The Beaucaire bullring is a true symbol of local identity. It still bears witness today to the deep attachment of the Land of Argence to its traditions, its Provençal culture and the world of the Camargue
