Maison Carrée - brown and white concrete house
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Maison Carrée

4.4
·15k reviews·Nîmes, France

The Maison Carrée: the world's best-preserved Roman temple, a breathtaking testament to ancient architectural genius.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Maison Carrée - brown and white concrete house

Maison Carrée

Best Time

Early mornings

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

The Maison Carrée: the world's best-preserved Roman temple, a breathtaking testament to ancient architectural genius.

4.4
(15k reviews)

"A masterpiece of ancient Roman architecture, this is considered the best-preserved Roman temple in the world."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The exterior is the star! Get shots from different angles, especially during golden hour.

🎟️ Support Preservation

The entrance fee is modest and helps maintain this ancient marvel.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Exterior

The Grand Exterior

Front Plaza

Marvel at the best-preserved Roman temple globally, a testament to ancient architectural genius.

Corinthian Columns

Corinthian Columns

Temple Facade

Admire the intricate details of the six Corinthian columns that define its iconic hexastyle facade.

Historical Context

Historical Context

Interior Exhibition Room

Learn about its dedication to Gaius and Lucius Caesar and its transformation through centuries.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

The Maison Carrée is remarkably well-preserved, making it a must-see. To avoid crowds and truly appreciate its grandeur, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for a more serene experience.

Beyond the Facade

While the exterior is breathtaking, the interior offers a glimpse into its history. The entrance fee supports preservation efforts, so factor that into your budget. Many visitors find the external architecture more captivating than the limited exhibits inside.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Shoulder seasons
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer tourists
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A French city that probably isn’t on your list, but should be🇫🇷✨ Often called the Rome of France, Nîmes is packed with history, culture, and charm. Here’s why you should add it to your list: 🏛 What to See & Do: • Explore the Roman Amphitheater, one of the best-preserved in the world. • Visit the Maison Carrée, an ancient Roman temple that inspired the Virginia State Capitol. • Wander through Jardi...
@travellingbunnies_
29.3K likes • 344.7K views

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The exterior is the star! Get shots from different angles, especially during golden hour. Reddit

🎟️ Support Preservation

The entrance fee is modest and helps maintain this ancient marvel. Reddit

A VENDRE 📍NÎMES 🟢 Côté Pierres Immobilier ⚪️ #immobilier #suddelafrance #design #decoration #house #luxuryhome #sun #nimes #avendre #visite
@baptiste_rostan_lapierre
20.7K likes • 417.6K views
🏡 Découvrez la Conciergerie de la Maison Carrée ! 🏡 Vous êtes propriétaire d’une villa et souhaitez maximiser vos revenus locatifs sans effort ? Profitez de notre offre spéciale avec des frais de gestion à seulement 20 % (au lieu de 22 %) ! 🎉 ✨ Nous nous occupons de tout pour vous : ✅ Gestion du linge ✅ Réapprovisionnement et petite maintenance ✅ Communication 7j/7 avec vos voyageurs ✅ Pack de b...
conciergeriedelamaisoncarree
12 likes • 2K views

🚶‍♂️ Explore Nîmes

Don't just see the Maison Carrée; Nîmes has other incredible Roman sites! Reddit

💡 Read Up Beforehand

Knowing its history enhances the appreciation of its architecture. Reddit

📍Nimes, France 🇫🇷 🎥 Tik Tok : Saria travels 📸 Instagram : @sariatravels Nîmes, a historic city in southern France, is known for its well-preserved Roman monuments, like the Arena of Nîmes, Maison Carrée, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct. Often called the "French Rome," Nîmes combines ancient heritage with vibrant local culture, offering beautiful gardens, festivals, and a warm Mediterranean climate...
sariatravels
884 likes • 23K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Grandeur

The exterior is the star! Get shots from different angles, especially during golden hour. Reddit

🎟️ Support Preservation

The entrance fee is modest and helps maintain this ancient marvel. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore Nîmes

Don't just see the Maison Carrée; Nîmes has other incredible Roman sites! Reddit

💡 Read Up Beforehand

Knowing its history enhances the appreciation of its architecture. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(15k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Maison Carrée as a stunningly preserved Roman temple, a true architectural masterpiece. While the exterior is universally admired for its beauty and historical significance, some find the interior exhibition to be limited, with an entrance fee for what is essentially a brief historical overview. Despite this, many feel the experience of witnessing such an ancient and intact structure is well worth the modest cost.

"A masterpiece of ancient Roman architecture, this is considered the best-preserved Roman temple in the world, symbolizing the era of Pax Romana. Constructed between 16 BCE and 4 CE, it was dedicated to Gaius and Lucius Caesar, adopted sons of Emperor Augustus, serving as a temple of imperial cult worship. Throughout the Middle Ages, it was repurposed as a town hall, church, and storehouse. From 1821 to 1907, it housed the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which contributed to its preservation. The temple features a hexastyle façade with six Corinthian columns and a pseudoperipteral layout—engaged columns along the cella walls creating the illusion of a full colonnade. Its harmonious proportions and refined decorative elements have inspired many later buildings, including the Virginia State Capitol (USA) and La Madeleine in Paris.
※ Included in the Pass Romanité."

Seokjin Ham

"There are 2 sides to this review.

1. Stunning architecture, a building that has stood for 1000’s of years passed the passage of time for of that it’s well worth the visit.

2, however there is nothing inside than the very informative information boards in one room that you pay €5 and queue for 20 mins.

I get the contribution to upkeep,

More interesting from the outside."

Graham Reynolds

"It's a beautiful building to admire from ancient Roman times. The exterior looks impressive and it's located in a lovely spot in Nîmes. I didn't see the inside because there was an entrance fee and I was told there wasn't much to see.""

Joost Huls

What People Like

Exceptional preservation
Stunning Roman architecture
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Limited interior exhibits
Entrance fee for interior

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Maison Carrée is centrally located in Nîmes, France. It's easily accessible on foot from most hotels in the city center. If arriving by train, the Nîmes train station is a pleasant 15-20 minute walk away. Taxis are also available. Reddit

While there isn't direct parking at the temple itself, several public parking garages are within a short walking distance, such as the Arènes de Nîmes parking. Reddit

Absolutely! Nîmes is a fantastic day trip destination from cities like Avignon or Montpellier. The Maison Carrée is a central attraction, easily combined with other Roman sites like the Arena of Nîmes. Reddit

Many visitors recommend exploring Nîmes on foot to fully appreciate its Roman sites, including the Maison Carrée, Arena, and Maison Carrée. Consider purchasing the Pass Romanité for access to multiple sites. Reddit

Yes, Nîmes has a bus network, and many routes will bring you close to the city center where the Maison Carrée is located. Walking from the train station is also a popular and easy option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, there is an entrance fee to go inside the Maison Carrée. While you can admire its exterior for free, the ticket grants access to the interior exhibition rooms. Reddit

The entrance fee is typically around €5, which contributes to the upkeep and preservation of this ancient monument. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official website or inquire locally. Reddit

Opening hours can vary seasonally. Generally, it's open daily, but it's advisable to check the official Nîmes tourism website for the most up-to-date information on hours and any potential closures. Reddit

Tickets can usually be purchased on-site. For peak season or if you want to guarantee entry without queuing, checking for online booking options might be beneficial, though it's not always necessary. Reddit

Yes, the 'Pass Romanité' often includes entry to the Maison Carrée, the Arena of Nîmes, and the Tour Magne, offering a cost-effective way to explore the city's Roman heritage. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find informative boards detailing the temple's history, its construction, and its significance. It's a relatively small exhibition space focused on historical context rather than artifacts. Reddit

Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes at the Maison Carrée, including time to admire the exterior and briefly explore the interior exhibition. Reddit

Yes, its sheer age and preservation are impressive. Even if you're not an architecture enthusiast, understanding its historical context makes it a fascinating site. Reddit

While there might not be daily guided tours specifically for the Maison Carrée, Nîmes offers guided walking tours that often include this monument as part of a broader exploration of Roman Nîmes. Reddit

The exterior is the main photographic draw. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the best conditions. Try different angles from the surrounding plaza to capture its full scale. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Maison Carrée is located in the heart of Nîmes, surrounded by numerous cafes, brasseries, and restaurants offering various cuisines. You'll find plenty of options within a short walk. Reddit

No, food and drinks are generally not permitted inside historical monuments like the Maison Carrée to preserve the site. Reddit

Nîmes cuisine features Provençal influences, with dishes often including olive oil, herbs, vegetables, and seafood. Look for local specialties like 'brandade de morue' (salt cod purée). Reddit

You can find more affordable options by looking for bakeries offering sandwiches or quiches, or smaller cafes away from the main tourist squares. Reddit

The streets surrounding the Maison Carrée are dotted with charming cafes perfect for a coffee break. Enjoying a coffee at an outdoor table is a classic Nîmes experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide beautiful, soft light that enhances the temple's stone. Midday sun can be harsh, creating strong shadows. Reddit

Photography of the exterior is generally allowed and encouraged. Inside, while photos are usually permitted, it's always good to check for any specific signage regarding flash or professional equipment. Reddit

Experiment with wide-angle shots from the plaza to capture its full scale. Closer shots focusing on the Corinthian capitals and friezes also yield great results. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around historical monuments due to safety and privacy regulations. It's highly unlikely to be permitted. Reddit

Its exceptional preservation, symmetrical design, and the warm hue of its stone make it incredibly photogenic. The surrounding plaza also offers good vantage points. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Maison Carrée itself might be more appreciated by adults due to its historical and architectural significance. However, its central location in Nîmes makes it an easy stop on a family outing. The Arena of Nîmes nearby is often a bigger hit with children, as they can imagine gladiatorial contests and chariot races. Reddit

Consider purchasing the Pass Romanité if you plan to visit multiple Roman sites. The Jardins de la Fontaine offer a pleasant space for kids to run around and explore, with ancient Roman ruins integrated into the park. Pack snacks and water, as exploring Roman sites can be tiring for little ones. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the Maison Carrée is a pilgrimage site. Its exceptional preservation offers a direct connection to the Roman Empire. Delve into its history as a temple of imperial cult worship and its subsequent transformations. Reddit

Combine your visit with the Arena of Nîmes and the Tour Magne to fully grasp the scale of Roman influence in the region. Nîmes itself is a treasure trove of Roman artifacts and architecture, making it a prime destination for anyone fascinated by ancient history. Reddit

📸 Photographers

The Maison Carrée is a dream for photographers, especially its exterior. The warm stone and classical proportions are incredibly photogenic. Aim for early morning or late afternoon light to capture the best textures and avoid harsh shadows. Reddit

Experiment with different focal lengths to capture both the grand scale of the temple and the intricate details of its Corinthian capitals and friezes. The surrounding plaza provides ample space for varied compositions. While the interior is less visually dramatic, it offers opportunities for capturing historical displays. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: Maison Carrée

The Maison Carrée stands as a remarkable example of Roman temple architecture, dating back to the early 1st century CE. Its name, meaning 'Square House,' refers to its near-perfect proportions. The temple is a hexastyle structure, meaning it features six columns across the front facade, and is pseudoperipteral, with engaged columns lining the sides of the cella (the inner chamber) to create the illusion of a full colonnade. The Corinthian order of its columns, with their ornate capitals, is a hallmark of Roman elegance and sophistication. Its harmonious design and refined decorative elements have profoundly influenced subsequent architectural movements, inspiring buildings across Europe and North America. Reddit

This temple was dedicated to Gaius and Lucius Caesar, grandsons and adopted heirs of Emperor Augustus. It served as a center for the imperial cult, a form of worship that honored the emperor and his family. Over the centuries, its function evolved dramatically: it was used as a town hall, a church, and even a granary, which ironically contributed to its remarkable preservation. The Musée des Beaux-Arts was housed within its walls for a significant period, further safeguarding its structure before its current role as a preserved monument. Reddit

Visitors often remark on the sheer longevity and pristine condition of the Maison Carrée. Unlike many ancient ruins, it remains largely intact, offering an unparalleled glimpse into Roman urban planning and religious life. While the interior provides historical context, the true 'wow' factor for many lies in standing before this ancient structure and contemplating its millennia-spanning existence. Reddit

Nîmes: A Roman Legacy

The Maison Carrée is not an isolated wonder; it's part of Nîmes' rich Roman heritage. The city was a significant Roman settlement, and its legacy is visible in several other well-preserved structures. The Arena of Nîmes, a massive amphitheater, is one of the best-preserved in the Roman world, capable of seating over 20,000 spectators. Nearby, the Tour Magne offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, serving as a watchtower and a symbol of Roman power. Reddit

Exploring these sites together provides a comprehensive understanding of Roman life in Gaul. The Pass Romanité is a highly recommended ticket that grants access to the Maison Carrée, the Arena, and the Tour Magne, offering excellent value for those interested in delving deep into the city's history. Many travelers find that Nîmes is an often-overlooked gem in the South of France, offering a more tranquil experience compared to some of its more famous neighbors. Reddit

Beyond these major monuments, remnants of Roman infrastructure, like the Jardins de la Fontaine, which incorporate ancient Roman baths and a temple, further showcase the city's Roman past. Walking through Nîmes feels like stepping back in time, with its Roman architecture seamlessly integrated into the modern urban fabric. Reddit

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