Exploring France’s Historic Roman Cities and Ancient Ruins

From 58 BC to the mid-5th-century AD, France, like much of western Europe, was ruled by Rome. Their kingdom was powerful and the Romans left a lasting legacy of their civilization in the cities of France, or Gaul as it was then.

Throughout France, you’ll find a wealth of Roman ruins and sites, including amphitheaters that once resounded to the roars of crowds, aqueducts that carried precious water, temples, forums, arches, and baths.

Most Roman remains are in the south of France, particularly in Provence, which lay close to the Roman Empire and Rome itself. However, there are some surprising places further north, extending up to Avesnois in the Nord, part of the new region of Les Hauts de France. Moreover, Paris, seized by Julius Caesar in 52 BC, has its fair share of Roman remains.

The Roman City of Arles in the Bouches-du-Rhone, Provence

Arles in the Bouches-du-Rhone is one of Europe’s best-preserved Gallo-Roman cities. Located at a significant European crossroads, it prospered from trade while industry added to its wealth and importance.

Begin your visit at the Musée d’Arles Antique (Av 1er Division France Libre) to explore models of the ancient city which vividly illustrate the ruins you later see. This well-designed museum conveys Arles’ story from Julius Caesar’s legionnaire base to its 5th-century magnificence.

Les Arènes

Completed in the late 1st century, the impressive amphitheater could seat 20,000 spectators. This typical construction featured concealed machinery, animal cages under the main stage, and a backstage area for gladiators, who rarely fought to the death, contrary to popular belief. The rise of Christianity ended these spectacles in 404 AD. Currently, Les Arènes hosts bullfights and cultural events.

Location: Rondpoint des Arènes

Théâtre Antique

The Roman Theater, erected around 25 BC, entertained 12,000 spectators with plays and theatrical performances. Although only the stage, columns, and orchestra remain, it continues to host concerts and festivals.

Location: Rue de la Calade

The Roman City of Orange in the Vaucluse, Provence

Orange is a small town located just 20 km (12.7 miles) north of Avignon, making it easily accessible from the city of the Popes. As the gateway to the Midi region, Orange serves as an important market center for fruit. Originally founded as the Roman city of Aurisio in 35 BC, Orange’s highlight is the Roman theater built between 27 and 25 BC, lauded for being one of the best preserved from the Roman Empire. The Roman buildings were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.

Orange Tourist Office location: 5 cours Aristide Briand

Roman Theatre (Théâtre Antique)

Constructed during Augustus’ reign, the theater maintains its stage wall mostly intact, distinguishing its architecture. This impressive wall, measuring 103 meters in length and 36 meters in height, forms the theater’s exterior. The large stage, once covered with a grand awning, is now topped with a glass roof. Divided into three tiers and capable of seating up to 9,000 spectators, seats were allocated according to social standing, with prime spots nearest the action.

Location: rue Madeleine Roch

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe should also be on your itinerary. This triple-bayed arch, located just north of the center at the N7 entrance to the town, was constructed around 20 BC in dedication to Tiberius. It was part of the Via Agrippa, the renowned Roman road that connected Lyon to Arles. Closer inspection reveals a beautifully preserved carving detailing the campaigns of the Second Legion and the epic naval battle of Augustus against Antony and Cleopatra.

Roman Vaison-la-Romaine in the Vaucluse, Provence

Vaison-la-Romaine, situated just 27 km (16 miles) northeast of Orange, was an important Roman town that thrived for four centuries. After the Romans departed, the river Ouvèze silting began, gradually burying the town’s treasures. It wasn’t until 1907 that excavations of the Theater unveiled its Roman riches.

The town now comprises two areas: the medieval Haute Ville or Upper Town and the lower area north of the river, connected by a single-arched Roman bridge. This site, near the vital waterway, became a flourishing Roman city.

Puymin

Puymin represents the district where life thrived during the Roman period. The Praetorium (courthouse), theater, temples, and shops populated streets where the foundations of numerous grand houses can be observed. Venture up the hill to the acclaimed archaeological Thééo Desplans museum (accessible through the Puymin main site) to see statues from historic residences and porticos.

The Maison des Messii belonged to one of the town’s notable families, showcasing columns and the foundations of various rooms. Additionally, the Portico of Pompey, built by Pompey’s family around AD 20, suffered significant destruction in the 5th century; however, you may see copies of statues in the museum.

The Roman theater today accommodates 7,000 spectators during its July dance festival. Utilizing an audio guide will enrich your experience as you explore the sites. Vestiges de la Villasse lies to the west featuring a smaller collection of ruins.

Tourist Office location: Place du Chanoine-Sautel

The Roman City of Nimes in Languedoc

Nîmes, sitting on the border between Languedoc and Provence, is a captivating city. Renowned for its magnificent Roman remains, it also boasts exciting new architecture designed by world-class architects like Sir Norman Foster, Jean Nouvel, and Philippe Starck.

The centerpiece of Roman Nîmes is the spectacular Les Arènes, a well-preserved first-century amphitheater. Its grand interior with vaulted corridors and tiered seating is hidden behind the stunning arcaded two-story facade. Today, the blood-curdling cries of gladiators fighting for survival have been replaced by the fervent cheers of crowds attending bullfights. Nîmes is recognized as one of the leading bullfighting hubs outside Spain.

Location: 4 ​bvd des Arènes

La Maison Carrée

La Maison Carrée stands as one of the best-preserved Roman temples in France. Built in 5 AD, it was erected in honor of the sons of Emperor Augustus. This marvelous, symmetrical building served as a model for the Madeleine church in Paris, designed by Napoleon. Its location in a dedicated square provides a sense of Roman Nîmes’ historical ambiance.

Location: 14 rue de la Maison Carrée

Jardin de la Fontaine

On a sweltering summer day in Nîmes, the Gardens provide a refreshing escape. Established in 1750 on a Roman site, although the fountains and nymphs at the entrance are from the 18th century, various Roman remnants like the Temple de Diane remain. Stroll through the grottos on the sloped, wooded path leading to the Tour Magne, a vestige of the city walls constructed by Augustus. Ascend for a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside.

The Musée Archéologique houses numerous Roman artifacts, adding depth to your understanding of life in Gallic France.

Location: 13 Boulevard Amiral Courbet

Other Attractions

There are two remaining gates worth visiting: the Porte Auguste and the Porte de France, along with the intriguing Castellum. A circular tank, it served as the entrance for water transported from Uzès along a 50-kilometer (31 miles) aqueduct. From this point, lead pipes directed the precious water to public fountains, monuments, and affluent residences.

Nîmes Tourist Office location: 6 rue August

The Pont du Gard in Gard, Languedoc

One of the most remarkable engineering feats of the Roman Empire, the World Heritage Site of the Pont du Gard is located just 20 km (12.7 miles) northeast of Nîmes. Serving as part of a 50 km (31 miles)-long aqueduct, it supplied the vital water source for Nîmes, coming from Uzès. This extensive structure offers a genuine appreciation for the engineering skills of Roman builders. The impressive bridge stands 49 meters (160 ft) high, featuring three tiers, with the uppermost collecting water. Remarkably, it was constructed without mortar and measures 275 meters (900 ft) long.

The site includes a multimedia complex, featuring a high-tech museum, botanical gardens, and various activities for children, making it an ideal spot for a day trip. The adjacent river provides opportunities for swimming and picnicking as well.

Location: 400 rte du Pont du Gard, Ver-Pont-du-Gard

The Roman City of Lyon in the Rhone Valley

As the fourth major city in France, Lyon has always held significant importance; today, it is a dynamic destination boasting a remarkable mix of historic buildings, recently refurbished neighborhoods, and some of the finest cuisine in France.

The Romans established a major camp here when Caesar set out to conquer Gaul. Known as Lugdunum, Lyon later became the capital of the Roman Empire’s ‘three Gauls’ of Aquitaine, Belgium, and the province around Lyon.

The Grand Roman Theatre of Lyon

Theatre was constructed around 15 BC on Fourvière hill, providing views of where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge. It seated up to 10,000 people. The site also features a smaller theater, the Odeon, both of which are still utilized for performances, especially during the renowned Nuits de Fourvière music and film festival held every summer.

Location: 6 rue de L’Antiquaille

Musée Gallo-Romain

Adjacent to the Roman theaters, this underground museum boasts an impressive collection of artifacts, ranging from superb statues to the intriguing Claudian Table – an engraved transcription of a speech made by Emperor Claudius, born in Lyon. This large and impressive museum comprises different levels, showcasing Lyon’s significance to the Romans.

Location: 17 rue Cleberg

The Roman City of St. Romain-en-Gal, Rhone-Alpes

Driving south of Lyon for 30 km (18 miles), you will arrive at the significant site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal – Vienne. Once a vital Roman city, known as Vienna, it served as the capital over a large expanse of the countryside, encompassing the Dauphiné and Savoy regions, straddling the Rhône River. Today, the site is shared between St. Romain-en-Gal and Vienne.

Attractions

St. Romain-en-Gal is a delightful area to explore, where the remains of villas and the grid layout of busy streets date from the 1st century BC to the 3rd century AD. The site was only uncovered in 1968, revealing a rich residential and commercial area. Here lies the craftsman’s district featuring a fulling mill, a commercial hub with warehouses and market halls, along with marble toilets in the wrestlers’ baths.

The Musée Gallo-Romain stands as a primary attraction. This modern building is situated within a large park and houses stunning exhibits, meticulously arranged to hold your interest throughout the exhibition. Don’t miss the detailed models, statues, and mesmerizing mosaic floors.

Vienne, Isere, Rhone Valley

Situated directly across the river from St. Romain-en-Gal, Vienne (previously known as Vienna) completes this extensive Roman site. Visiting both Vienne and St. Romain-en-Gal ensures a comprehensive understanding of this region of Roman Gaul.

The town boasts a plethora of Roman sites, including twin theaters and a complete Roman temple.

Attractions

The Temple d’Auguste et de Livie has undergone impressive restoration. This smaller edition of Nîmes’ Maison Carrée is situated in the place du Palais. Don’t forget to explore the remains of the Jardin Archéologique de Cybèle off place de Miremont.

The Théâtre Antique (Rue du Cirque) is a prominent attraction in Vienne. Constructed around 40 AD, it can accommodate up to 13,000 spectators, which made it one of the largest structures throughout the Roman Empire. If your visit coincides with the summer, consider attending a concert or the Jazz à Vienne Festival held on this stage.

The Musée Archéologique Eglise St-Pierre (Place St Pierre) houses a diverse assortment of Roman artifacts alongside exquisite fresco fragments and mosaics.

The Roman City of Saintes in Poitou-Charentes

One of the lesser-known Roman cities, Saintes, or Médiolanum Santonum, served as the capital of the Roman province of Saintonge and as the Gallo-Roman capital of Aquitaine for a century.

Attractions

Begin your visit with the Arc de Germanicus located near the riverbank. This triumphal arch was dedicated to Germanicus Caesar and his uncle, Emperor Tiberius. Originally, it adorned a stone bridge that spanned the Charente river.

The Musée Archéologique (Esplanade André Malraux), situated next door, houses various artifacts alongside reconstructed walls and pillars.

The primary tourist attraction is Les Arènes (20 rue Lacurie). Access the charming footpath adjacent to 54 cours Reverseaux to arrive at this remarkable structure, the oldest surviving Roman ruins in France. It is a serene amphitheater carved into the hillside and particularly enchanting during summer when it hosts a series of free concerts in the sandy space.

The Roman City of Bavay in North France

Bavay is located east of Valenciennes and north of Le Cateau-Cambresis, a small town renowned for its Roman remains. Its Roman sector spans extensively, complemented by an outstanding museum located adjacent to the green forum.

Initially, Caesar conquered the area, inhabited by those he deemed the wildest of the Belgians. Named Bagacum, this town existed at the intersection of seven main routes leading to various cities including Utrecht, Boulogne-sur-mer, Cambrai, Soissons, Reims, Trèves, and Cologne, becoming the capital of this segment of Roman Gaul.

Bavay Roman Forum and Archeological Museum

The Bavay forum is vast, spanning 2.5 hectares, making it the largest of its kind north of Rome, measuring 240 meters (787 ft) long and nearly 110 meters (361ft) wide; it served as the city and regional center. Currently, it stands as a green space adorned with substantial walls. The remains point to a basilica slightly larger than the one at Carthage, at 98 meters (321 ft) long. In combination with Ostia, Bavay was among the three largest basilicas in the Roman Empire. Today, you will likely see groups of French schoolchildren engaged in learning about Roman warfare.

The museum offers an excellent experience, serving as an unexpected delight with an interactive 3D film that brings life to a reconstructed Bavay. The exhibits are thematically organized, showcasing this discovery just an hour from Lille and Brussels.

Location: Allée Chanoine Biévele