Aparthotel near the Maison Carrée in Nîmes
A Roman temple in the heart of Nîmes
Place de la Maison Carrée, 30000 Nîmes. Built between AD 2 and AD 4 during the reign of Augustus, the Maison Carrée is one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world. Added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023, it has stood over the historic centre of Nîmes for more than 2,000 years. Its 30 Corinthian columns, sculpted pediment and perfectly balanced proportions make it an exceptional example of Roman architecture in Gaul. Just a few metres away, the Carré d’Art contemporary art museum, designed by Norman Foster, creates a unique dialogue between the ancient world and contemporary creativity.
What to see at the Maison Carrée
Inside the Maison Carrée, visitors can watch an immersive film about the founding of Nîmes and the Roman era, projected in the temple’s single main chamber. The exterior can be visited free of charge, allowing you to admire the columns, raised podium and sculpted details of the frieze. Inside, the film Heroes of Ancient Nîmes takes visitors on a journey through the history of the Gallo-Roman city.
Opposite the temple, Place de la Maison Carrée is an inviting place to stop at one of the cafés or restaurants surrounding the gardens. Located directly across the square, the Carré d’Art hosts contemporary art exhibitions and features a terrace overlooking the Maison Carrée.
Stay near the Maison Carrée
Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes, a four-star aparthotel in Nîmes
Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes, a four-star aparthotel in Nîmes
Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes is an ideal aparthotel in Nîmes for visiting the Maison Carrée and exploring the city’s historic centre. Located immediately next to the Nîmes Arena and just a five-minute walk from the Maison Carrée via Boulevard Victor Hugo, it provides one of the most central bases from which to discover the Roman heritage of Nîmes and the Gard department.Arènes de Nîmes à 2 minutes à pied. Maison Carrée à 5 minutes à pied. Jardins de la Fontaine à 10 minutes à pied. Gare de Nîmes à 15 minutes à pied. Aéroport de Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes à 10 km. Montpellier à 50 km. Avignon à 45 km. Arles et la Camargue à 30 km.
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What to see around the Maison Carrée in Nîmes
- Carré d’Art: located opposite the Maison Carrée, this contemporary art museum designed by Norman Foster hosts temporary exhibitions and houses a permanent collection of European contemporary art. Its terrace offers an outstanding view of the Maison Carrée.
- Nîmes Arena: a five-minute walk away, this exceptionally well-preserved Roman amphitheatre hosts bullfights, concerts and live performances throughout the year. Listed as a historic monument, the Nîmes Arena is one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks.
- Les Jardins de la Fontaine : located a ten-minute walk from the historic centre, these 18th-century formal French gardens contain the Temple of Diana and lead to the Tour Magne, the highest point in Nîmes, with panoramic views over the city and the Gard.
- L'esplanade Charles-de-Gaulle : a large and lively square in central Nîmes, featuring the Pradier Fountain and numerous café and restaurant terraces.
- Birthplace of Alphonse Daudet: located on Rue Littré, around ten minutes away on foot, this site will appeal particularly to literature enthusiasts.
Frequently asked questions about the Maison Carrée in Nîmes
Why is it called the Maison Carrée?
The Maison Carrée takes its name from its right angles and rectangular proportions. The residents of Nîmes originally used the word carrée to describe a regular and well-proportioned shape. Despite its name, the monument is not geometrically square but rectangular.
Is the Maison Carrée a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
Yes. The Maison Carrée in Nîmes was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2023, alongside the Nîmes Arena, the Pont du Gard and several other Roman monuments in southern France.
How do you get to the Maison Carrée from the Nîmes Arena?
The Maison Carrée is approximately a five-minute walk from the Nîmes Arena via Boulevard Victor Hugo. This is the natural route through the historic centre of Nîmes, connecting two of the city’s most important Roman monuments.
How long does it take to visit the Maison Carrée?
Allow approximately 45 minutes to one hour for a complete visit, including the immersive film Heroes of Ancient Nîmes and time to explore the exterior of the temple.
Is there a combined pass for visiting the monuments of Nîmes?
Yes. A combined pass provides reduced-price admission to the Maison Carrée, the Nîmes Arena and the Tour Magne. The pass is available at the entrance to each of the three monuments.
Which aparthotel should you choose when visiting the Maison Carrée in Nîmes?
Appart’City Collection Nîmes Arènes is an aparthotel in Nîmes located immediately next to the Arena and just a five-minute walk from the Maison Carrée. It offers fully equipped four-star studios and apartments, a reception desk open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and an ideal location in the heart of the historic centre of Nîmes.
Is there parking near the Maison Carrée?
Several car parks are available nearby, including the Maison Carrée car park on Rue de la Maison Carrée, the Esplanade car park on Boulevard Amiral Courbet and the Arènes car park on Place des Arènes.
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