The Maison Carrée of Nîmes: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Overview

The Maison Carrée (Square House) is a remarkable ancient Roman temple located in the heart of the historic city of Nîmes, France. This well-preserved monument is considered one of the best-known and best-preserved temples from the Roman era.

History

Construction

The Maison Carrée was built between 16 BC and 4 AD during the reign of Augustus. The temple was dedicated to two deities: Mars Ultor (Mars the Avenger) and Roma Aeterna (Eternal Rome). It served as a symbol of Roman power and victory, and its construction marked the end of the civil war that had taken place in Gaul during Julius Caesar’s time.

Restoration and Evolution

Over the centuries, the Maison Carrée has undergone several restorations. In 1720, the famous French architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot restored the temple, giving it its current appearance. During the French Revolution, the temple was used as a granary and a stable, causing significant damage to the structure. However, in the early 19th century, the temple was restored again, this time by the architect Gabriel-Hippolyte Moreau.

Architecture

Design

The Maison Carrée is an example of Corinthian architecture. It has a rectangular plan with three bays on each side and a pronaos (forehall) and opisthodomos (rear hall) at the front and back, respectively. The temple’s height is equal to its width (36 meters), making it one of the few perfectly proportioned Roman temples.

Materials

The Maison Carrée was built using local limestone and marble imported from Italy. The limestone blocks are exceptionally well-fitted, with joints barely visible, demonstrating the high level of craftsmanship during the Roman era.

Interior

The interior of the temple is simple yet stunning. The cella (inner sanctuary) houses two large granite statues: one representing Mars and the other representing Roma. These statues were added in the 16th century when the temple was converted into a church dedicated to Saint-Jean-Baptiste.

Visiting the Maison Carrée

Location

The Maison Carrée is located in the center of Nîmes, close to other famous Roman monuments such as the Arena and the Jardins de la Fontaine. It is easily accessible on foot or by public transportation.

Opening Hours

The temple is open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (from October to March) and from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (from April to September).

Admission Fee

There is no admission fee for visiting the Maison Carrée. However, donations are welcome.

Nearby Attractions

Arena of Nîmes

The Arena of Nîmes is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. It was built between 70 AD and 100 AD and can still host events today, including concerts and bullfights.

Jardins de la Fontaine

These beautiful gardens, located near the Maison Carrée, offer a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city of Nîmes. They feature numerous fountains, statues, and lush greenery.

Useful Tips for Tourists

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking around the city.
• Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.
• Check the official Nîmes tourism website for more information about other attractions, restaurants, and accommodations in the city.
• Consider purchasing a Museum Pass if you plan on visiting multiple museums or monuments in Nîmes.

Conclusion

The Maison Carrée is an essential stop for anyone interested in ancient Roman history and architecture. Its impeccable preservation offers a unique glimpse into the grandeur of the Roman Empire. Coupled with the other fascinating attractions in Nîmes, this temple makes for an unforgettable travel experience.