Musée Départemental Arles Antique

Museum in Arles

Musee Departemental Arles Antique
Musee Departemental Arles Antique
CC BY-SA 4.0 / L.Brighton

Standing proudly on the site of Arles' ancient Roman circus, the Musée Départemental Arles Antique - affectionately known as “the Blue Museum” - is one of the top attractions in Arles and a stunning example of how modern architecture can breathe new life into ancient heritage. Since opening in 1995, this sleek triangular structure designed by Henri Ciriani has become a symbol of Arles' devotion to preserving its Roman past. Inside, more than 1,700 years of history unfold through sculptures, mosaics, sarcophagi, and artifacts that once defined the life of ancient Arelate.

Visiting this museum is like stepping into a dialogue between the ancient and the contemporary. Its airy galleries, minimalist design, and interactive displays bring the grandeur of Roman Arles into focus. It's often visited on walking-tours of Arles but deserves its own unhurried visit - a place where art, architecture, and archaeology unite to tell the story of one of Provence's greatest cities.

History and Significance of the Musée Départemental Arles Antique

The museum's origins are rooted in centuries of preservation. Since the 17th century, the city of Arles has shown a remarkable commitment to safeguarding its antiquities. Early collections were displayed as early as 1614, evolving through several locations before the creation of the “Lapidary Museum” inside the former Sainte-Anne Church in the 19th century. As discoveries from archaeological digs expanded, it became clear that Arles needed a space worthy of its rich heritage - leading to the creation of today's museum.

Architect Henri Ciriani's vision gave rise to a “Museum City” concept - a bold triangular structure enclosing a sunlit patio, with three wings dedicated to exhibitions, education, and research. Since its inauguration in 1995, the Musée Départemental Arles Antique has served as a bridge between past and present. In 2012, a new extension was added to house the spectacular Arles-Rhône 3 barge and other treasures recovered from the Rhône River, expanding the museum's narrative to include the city's role as a vital maritime hub.

Things to See and Do in the Musée Départemental Arles Antique

Inside, the museum's seven main sections lead visitors through the rise and transformation of ancient Arles - from its prehistoric roots to its height under the Roman Empire. Among the masterpieces on display are the imposing marble statue of Augustus, elegant mosaics depicting scenes of mythology and daily life, and the famed Venus of Arles, a symbol of classical beauty discovered in the city's Roman theatre. The collection also includes a bust believed to represent Julius Caesar, early Christian sarcophagi, and intricately carved altars celebrating both civic and divine life.

A major highlight is the Arles-Rhône 3 barge, an extraordinary Roman-era cargo vessel retrieved almost intact from the Rhône River. Displayed as though it were still afloat, the barge offers an astonishing window into ancient river trade and craftsmanship. Surrounding exhibits showcase the goods and tools found aboard, illustrating Arles' importance as a port city that connected the Mediterranean to inland Gaul.

This spot is one of the best places to see in Arles for anyone fascinated by ancient history, architecture, and archaeology. Every room tells a story - from the grandeur of Roman sculpture to the artistry of the smallest household object.

How to Get There

The Musée Départemental Arles Antique is located along the Avenue Jean Monnet, about a 15-minute walk from Arles' historic center. From Arles railway station, the route follows the Rhône River, offering scenic views along the way. Visitors arriving by car can park conveniently at Parking du Centre or Parking des Lices, both within easy reach of the museum and the city’s main attractions.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Musée Départemental Arles Antique

  • Best time to visit the Musée Départemental Arles Antique: Morning or early afternoon; weekdays are quieter.
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around 9 EUR for adults; discounts for students, children, and seniors.
  • Opening hours: Typically 10:00-18:00; closed on Tuesdays.
  • Official website: www.arles-antique.cg13.fr
  • How long to spend: 1.5 to 2 hours to explore all sections thoroughly.
  • Accessibility: Fully accessible with elevators and ramps throughout.
  • Facilities: Café, restrooms, bookstore, and an educational area for children.
  • Photography tip: Capture the contrast between the museum’s modern architecture and its ancient artifacts.
  • Guided tours: Offered in multiple languages; audio guides available.
  • Nearby food options: Small cafés and brasseries nearby, or head back to the city center for more dining choices.

Is the Musée Départemental Arles Antique Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. The museum is one of the things to do in Arles that combines scholarship, design, and emotion in a single experience. Its innovative architecture and world-class collection make it not just a museum but a living narrative of Arles' 2,000-year history. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about Roman Provence, this museum offers an unforgettable journey through time.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.6 (3,810)

Musée départemental Arles antique, on the Presqu'île du Cirque Romain in Arles, is a modern museum showcasing Roman sarcophagi, sculptures and mosaics from the Augustinian era to the 6th century, with spacious galleries and models of ancient buildings; highlights noted by visitors include elaborately decorated tombs and the large Arles Rhône 3 boat on display with an accompanying film (available with English subtitles), practical touches such as lockers for larger bags, and useful English materials though much of the signage is primarily in French; many recommend visiting via a combined city pass for a discount that covers this museum and other local monuments.

Eileen Weed
4 weeks ago
"This museum is a delight, filled with precious artifacts that are originals, with plenty of room to move around. I loved all the models of variousbuildings, and the many elaborately decorated tombs, especially. The film on rescuing the ancient boat / river barge, was fascinating and very well done!..."
elaDevilara
7 months ago
"Very interesting place. I went there because of the combined ticket (pass), and left impressed by the incredible collection gathered in this museum!Must visit to understand the great past of this area...."
Kirill Maksimkin
a year ago
"One of the best ancient museums in the south of France. The place is rich at unique historical exhibits including a huge original boat which wasfound on the bottom of the lake nearby. I do recommend buying a city pass as it provides a very good discount for this museum and several monuments as well as other museums...."

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The Musée Départemental Arles Antique appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Arles!

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Daily from 10 :00 to 18 :00 except Tuesday Closed : 1 January, 1 May, 1 November and 25 December

Price:

Regular : 8 € Reduced : 5 €

Address: Museum of ancient Arles and Provence Presqu'île du Cirque Romain 13200 Arles France
Arles: 1 km

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