Roman monuments, archaeological evidence and museums give Nîmes several distinct cultural perspectives. These are complemented by contemporary art, the Jardins de la Fontaine as a place for walks and cultural visits, and the Halles de Nîmes. Those planning a stay can therefore choose between different focuses, from architectural history and collections to gardens and the market.
Roman buildings and traces of antiquity
The Maison Carrée has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 18 September 2023. It is the only and oldest surviving example of the Augustan Corinthian order still standing; its entire decoration has been preserved intact. Its UNESCO status and architectural distinction define the significance of this building and make it a prominent part of Nîmes’ Roman heritage.
The Arènes de Nîmes are on a different scale: they are 133 metres long and 101 metres wide. Their outer façade is 21 metres high and divided into 60 bays. Length and width indicate the dimensions of the building, while height and bays describe the façade’s structure. This brings out the ground plan and the façade design as two distinct aspects of the monument.
The Temple de Diane adds a historical interpretation to these remains: it was part of the Augusteum, a complex dedicated to the Roman imperial cult. In antiquity, healing pilgrimages took place at the Augusteum. The surviving Roman remains in the Jardins de la Fontaine thus link a visible trace of antiquity with the history of a cult complex.
The Jardins de la Fontaine and their monuments
The Jardins de la Fontaine are designated a Site Patrimonial Remarquable and contain ancient remains as well as emblematic monuments of Nîmes. They also offer opportunities for walks, picnics and cultural visits. The Tour Magne stands at the highest point of the gardens and is the most spectacular surviving remnant of Nîmes’ Roman city fortifications. Its terrace offers visitors panoramic views over the city.
The Castellum adds another dimension to this part of the city’s history as an exceptionally rare surviving relic and the arrival point of the Nîmes aqueduct. It shifts the focus from individual monuments to the endpoint of this ancient water supply. The city’s Roman remains therefore include both imposing buildings and the aqueduct connection.
History and contemporary art
The Musée de la Romanité presents 25 centuries of history through several thousand objects and 65 multimedia installations. The museum also includes a Mediterranean archaeological garden that follows the traces of the former Augustan city wall. The historical span and archaeological connections thus shape the museum’s focus.
Carré d’Art – Musée d’art contemporain offers a different perspective. Since 1993, it has presented exhibitions every year by internationally acclaimed or emerging artists. Carré d’Art offers individual guided tours of its temporary exhibitions and collection. This complements the historical focus of the Musée de la Romanité with contemporary art.
The difference is clear when choosing what to focus on: the Musée de la Romanité looks at 25 centuries of history, while Carré d’Art presents exhibitions of contemporary art. This makes it possible to plan your museum visit around whether archaeological history or current art should take centre stage.
The market and evening entertainment
The Halles de Nîmes have been in operation since 1884 and are the vibrant heart of the city centre. Today, they continue to stand out for their quality and convivial atmosphere. The market thus complements the monuments and museums with another aspect of urban life.
Les Jeudis de Nîmes features free evening concerts in several of the city’s emblematic squares. Check the specific event dates for your travel period.
Discover more destinations: Tresques, Chamborigaud, Domazan, Laval-Saint-Roman, Bouillargues, Saint-Florent-Sur-Auzonnet, Sumène, Saint-Hilaire-De-Brethmas
For the broader travel overview: Gard.
