Maison Carrée

Comprising a porch and inner chamber bounded by Corinthian columns, the Maison Carrée was built to honor consul Marcus Agrippa’s two sons, both heirs to Rome’s imperial throne who died young. Once a fixture of the original Roman forum, the temple was restored in 2006 and today contains multimedia displays charting the history of Roman Nîmes.

Visitors can see the exterior on their own, but those wishing to enter will need admission tickets. Combination tickets grant access to the interior and two other city landmarks: the Arenes (Roman Arena) and Tour Magne (Great Tower). Nearly all Nîmes walking tours feature the temple, with many also including admission to the arena. The temple is also frequently a stop on Provence day trips departing from Arles, Avignon, and elsewhere.

• The Maison Carrée is one of Nîmes top attractions.

• It’s not essential to enter the temple: the exterior is more impressive than the inner chamber.

• The temple steps are not wheelchair-accessible.

• Take care if visiting with children: the temple podium is high and without guard-rails.

Situated in Nimes’ pedestrianized center, the Maison Carrée is easily reached on foot or by bus or car. From the main train station, it’s a 15-minute walk along Avenue Feuchères into the old town. The #4, #7, #9, or #10 buses all reach the maison. If driving, leave your car at Nîmes’ Maison Carrée or Coupole parking lots, both nearby.

Avoid mid-morning crowds, especially during summer. During July and August, consider visiting on Thursday evenings, when craft stalls and open-air concerts enliven the square. Opening hours can vary—check the schedule in advance to avoid hassles.

The Maison Carrée exterior is a sight to behold, with columns and friezes decorated with acanthus leaves, and a roof bearing rosettes and lion heads. The temple front once bore the letters stating: “To Gaius Caesar, son of Augustus, Consul; to Lucius Caesar, son of Augustus, Consul designate; to the princes of youth.” Although the original lettering is long-gone, the inscription is replicated on a wall nearby.