Trophy of Augustus La Turbie
A monumental Roman victory column in La Turbie, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the empire's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Trophy of Augustus La Turbie
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A monumental Roman victory column in La Turbie, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the empire's past.
"An extraordinary place, well worth a visit. The panorama from there is breathtaking with views over the whole of Monaco."
🎯 Follow the Signs!
Don't rely solely on GPS; follow local signs to the Trophy to avoid closed gates.
🎟️ Ticket Office Location
Purchase tickets at the air-conditioned office near the Trophy, not at potentially closed gates.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Trophy of Augustus
La Turbie
A monumental Roman victory column celebrating Augustus's conquest of Alpine tribes.
Panoramic Views
Top of the Trophy
Breathtaking vistas stretching over Monaco and the Mediterranean coast.
Roman Gall Museum
Base of the Trophy
Discover the history of the monument and its restoration through informative displays.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Navigating to the Trophy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Follow the Signs!
Don't rely solely on GPS; follow local signs to the Trophy to avoid closed gates.
🎟️ Ticket Office Location
Purchase tickets at the air-conditioned office near the Trophy, not at potentially closed gates.
🚶♀️ Climb for Views
Ascend the restored monument for incredible panoramic views of the coast.
🚌 Bus to La Turbie
The #11 bus from Monte Carlo is a convenient way to reach La Turbie.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Follow the Signs!
Don't rely solely on GPS; follow local signs to the Trophy to avoid closed gates.
🎟️ Ticket Office Location
Purchase tickets at the air-conditioned office near the Trophy, not at potentially closed gates.
🚶♀️ Climb for Views
Ascend the restored monument for incredible panoramic views of the coast.
🚌 Bus to La Turbie
The #11 bus from Monte Carlo is a convenient way to reach La Turbie.
🏛️ Explore the Museum
Learn about the monument's history and restoration, though some videos are in French.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Trophy of Augustus as a 'hidden gem' with 'breathtaking' panoramic views over Monaco and the coast. The well-structured museum and the opportunity to climb the monument are frequently highlighted positives. Some note that the museum's video content is in French and that the monument is a reconstructed ruin, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile historical site.
"My wife and I stayed in Villefranche for a month. The woman who we rented the apartment from in the Old Town area of the city recommended we take a trip to see The Trophy of Augustus. There is so much history in this place, you can almost feel the generations over the eons brush past you as you tour the grounds. One of the coolest things we did was to take the steps up and actually stand on a number of observation spots to see just how grand and how massive this monument the the founder of Rome and the conqueror of the Apline people really was. It sits right above Monoco looking down into the harbor and out to sea. Truly spectacular vistas. On the way up you can also see Eze which is another spectacular place to visit, shop and eat. The Trophy also has a small museum, but it is well worth the time. Everything is in English and you can go through every small exhibit in about 30 minutes. It really helps put some perspective on how old this monument is, and what was entailed in restoring it partially. It is purposefully left partially exposed so you can see what was used to build it. We highly recommend you take the time to visit this out of the way experience. Stunning views are wrapped in history. A perfect combination for anyone who loves beauty and history."
Dustin Kanady
"Marvellous place, hidden Augustean gem in La Turbie. The museum is also very well structured, and the view is breathtaking. The woman working at the information point was gentle and very cultured. I felt emotional to come here, as an big fan of Ancient Rome."
L B
"An extraordinary place, well worth a visit. The panorama from there is breathtaking with views over the whole of Monaco. The monument itself is well presented and allows close inspection, you can even climb up to a high viewpoint."
Bruce Bracken
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Trophy of Augustus is located in the village of La Turbie, perched on a hill above Monaco. Many visitors arrive by car, but be aware that GPS directions can sometimes be misleading. It's best to follow the signs for 'Trophy' once you are in La Turbie. Alternatively, the #11 bus from Monte Carlo train station provides a convenient public transport option, dropping you near the monument. +1
Parking can be challenging in the charming but narrow streets of La Turbie. Look for designated parking areas within the village. Arriving early in the day can increase your chances of finding a spot.
Yes, it's possible to hike to the Trophy of Augustus from nearby areas like Cap d'Ail, following parts of the ancient Via Julia Augusta. This offers a unique historical perspective, walking in the footsteps of Roman soldiers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check the official website or local information before your visit. Early mornings and late afternoons are often recommended for fewer crowds and better lighting.
Admission is typically around €7 for adults, with free entry for those under 18. Combination tickets might be available if you plan to visit other nearby historical sites.
Tickets are purchased at the air-conditioned office located near the monument. Avoid following GPS directions that might lead you to a closed gate; look for the official ticket office.
The monument has been restored with stairs and handrails for visitors to climb. While the main structure is accessible, the surrounding historical site might have uneven terrain.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the impressive Roman monument itself, which you can climb for panoramic views. There's also a small museum detailing its history and restoration, and the surrounding gardens offer a pleasant space to explore.
The views from the top are spectacular, offering sweeping panoramas of the French Riviera, Monaco, and the Mediterranean Sea. It's a prime spot for photography and soaking in the coastal scenery.
Yes, a small museum is located at the base of the monument. It provides historical context about the Trophy, its construction, and its extensive restoration in the early 20th century.
Erected in 6 AD, the Trophy of Augustus commemorated Emperor Augustus's victory over 45 Alpine tribes. It marked the boundary of the Roman Empire and symbolized its power and reach.
The monument is largely a ruin, though it has been significantly reconstructed. The original structure was much taller, and the current form reflects efforts to preserve and present its historical significance.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the monument in its most picturesque setting. The golden hour light can be particularly stunning.
The panoramic views from the top of the monument are a must-capture. Also, consider framing the Trophy against the backdrop of the Mediterranean or the charming village of La Turbie.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and within protected areas. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Buffs & Ancient Rome Enthusiasts
The museum provides context on its construction and the extensive restoration efforts, offering insights into how historical sites are preserved. 📸 Photographers & View Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monument's Grandeur and Reconstruction
+1While much of the original monument has been lost to time and plundering, it underwent significant reconstruction in the early 20th century. This restoration, while not perfectly replicating the original appearance due to a lack of definitive historical records, has preserved the site and made it accessible to visitors. The current structure, standing at about 36 meters, allows for exploration and offers a tangible connection to Roman history.
Visitors can climb the restored monument, navigating stairs and handrails to reach viewpoints that offer breathtaking panoramas. The experience allows one to appreciate the scale of the original construction and the strategic importance of its placement.
Exploring La Turbie and Its Surroundings
From La Turbie, the views extend to the glamorous principality of Monaco. Many visitors combine a trip to the Trophy with a visit to Monaco, enjoying the scenic drive or bus journey between the two locations. The #11 bus route is a popular and convenient way to travel between Monte Carlo and La Turbie.
For those interested in further historical exploration, the Via Julia Augusta itself is an ancient Roman road that passed by the monument. Hiking along sections of this road, as some visitors have done, provides an immersive experience, walking on the same paths trodden by Roman soldiers centuries ago.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit