Whether you are on vacation or simply passing through Nimes, there are many reasons to visit. There is the Magne Tower, which is an impressive structure built in the Roman era, the Museum of Romanity, the Jardins de la Fontaine and the Roman amphitheatre. Each of these attractions is unique and well worth a look.
Roman amphitheatre
Located in the French city of Nimes, the Nimes Roman Amphitheatre is one of the oldest and most well-preserved Roman arenas in the world. Built around 70 AD, it was used for gladiatorial contests and animal hunts. Today, it is one of four amphitheaters still in use.
The arena is 133 meters long, 21 meters high, and has 34 rows of seats. During its heyday, it could accommodate 24,000 spectators. It was also used for public executions. During the Second Empire, the amphitheatre was restored.
This Roman amphitheatre is located on the Fouviere hill. The hill rises above the city of Lyon. The ruins of the amphitheater are located inside the hill, along with Roman baths.
The Roman amphitheatre is composed of two theatres facing each other, with an oval arena in between. The upper floor of the building was covered in stone, flush with the walls. The lower floor was underground.
Jardins de la Fontaine
During your stay in Nimes, don't miss the chance to explore one of the most interesting attractions in the city: the Jardins de la Fontaine. This park is located near the heart of the city and features an extensive water source. It is also a great place to go for a picnic.
The park was built around an ancient site and contains two well-preserved Roman ruins. You can also enjoy the ruins of a Roman temple. The Temple of Diane is believed to have been a part of a larger sanctuary, though its exact purpose is unclear.
Another notable feature is the Nimes mosaic, which depicts the Marriage of Admetus. The mosaic measures 8.80 metres by 5.94 metres.
In addition to the mosaic, you can visit the Roman ruins of the Temple of Diana and the Maison Carree. The Temple of Diana is a great example of Roman architecture. The temple is one of the most complete in the former Roman territories.
Magne Tower
Located in the heart of Nimes, Magne Tower offers visitors a chance to see the city from above. It is one of the most popular attractions in the city. It is easy to find and is free to enter.
The tower is 36 meters high and was part of the ramparts that protected the city of Nimes during the Roman era. It was a strategic structure and was later expanded by Augustus. It is a popular destination for families and exercise groups.
There is a gift shop and service counter. It is open Monday to Saturday and 10 to 6 on Sundays. The museum displays local culture, including a huge ancient Roman mosaic.
A nearby art gallery, CACN, is also worth checking out. It features contemporary art and regional art. It is free to visit and hosts many events.
Museum of Romanity
Located in the heart of Nimes, the Museum of Romanity is a new archaeological museum that features an impressive collection of artifacts. It is located opposite the ancient 2,000-year-old Roman arena. The museum has a total of 25,000 artifacts.
The museum covers four periods of Roman history: the pre-Roman, the Roman, the Middle Ages and the post-Roman period. The museum is divided into four galleries, each highlighting a different time period. Each gallery is accompanied by maps to help visitors understand the chronology of the museum.
The most popular attraction is the cork architectural models. These are detailed models of Roman monuments created by local craftsmen. These models were displayed in the Universal Exhibition of 1839.
The museum also features an interactive terminal with animated clips on Pompei and the Gallic house. A scale model of the oppedum is on display.
Museum of Fine Arts
Located in the heart of the city of Nimes, Musee Carre d'Art is an exciting contemporary art museum. It is one of the best museums of contemporary art in the south of France. It was designed by English architect Norman Foster and opened in 1993.
The museum has a large and impressive collection of more than 600 works. Its paintings and sculptures are of French and Italian origin, mainly those from the 16th to 19th centuries.
The museum has a permanent collection of works by leading artists from the south of France, such as Suzanne Lafont, Sophie Calle, Pierre Subleyras and Annette Messager. The museum also hosts visiting modern art exhibitions. In addition, the museum offers workshops and conferences. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday.