Musée de la Romanité

The Musée de la Romanité in Nîmes is a contemporary archaeological museum located opposite the ancient Arena. Designed by architect Elizabeth de Portzamparc, the building features a distinctive corrugated glass façade inspired by Roman togas and mosaics. Opened in 2018 following the discovery of a Roman house and mosaics in the city center, the museum showcases 25 centuries of local history through 5,000 exceptional objects and 65 multimedia devices.

Visitors are guided through an immersive journey covering Nîmes’ origins with the Gauls, its significant Roman era, and its medieval Christian heritage. Key highlights include the stunning 35m² mosaic of Pentheus from the early 3rd century AD, as well as interactive displays and multimedia presentations that bring the history of the Gard region to life. The museum also houses 18th and 19th-century scholarly collections.

The site is open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, with last entry at 6:00 pm. Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month, excluding July and August. On-site facilities include a book-gift shop, a gourmet bistro-style restaurant, and a Mediterranean-style garden. A standout feature is the 360° rooftop, which offers panoramic views of Nîmes’ monuments. Currently, the museum hosts the exhibition "Roman Art from the Louvre: A World of Images," which runs from June 11, 2026, to January 10, 2027. This combination of modern architecture, extensive artifacts, and interactive technology makes the museum a central cultural destination for understanding the historical depth of Nîmes.