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Glanum archaeological site

Avenue Vincent Van Gogh, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Description

Glanum was an oppidum (large, fortified settlement) built between the 4th and 2nd centuries BC by Celto-Ligurian tribes. Regular contacts with the Greek colony of Massilia (nowadays modern Marseille) influenced the architecture of several buildings with villas being built in the Hellenic style. In 125BC the city was defeated by the Romans and many monuments were destroyed. Nonetheless, the city expanded again under Roman dominion (a forum and baths were built), until its destruction by the Alamanni in 260AD, after which it was abandoned. The highlights of the archaeological site are a mausoleum and a triumphal arch.

Access & Transport

The site is located 1km south of Saint Remy de Provence and 8km from the village of Baux-de-Provence. It is about 20km south of Avignon (D 571 to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, then D 5), 25km to the northeast of Arles (D570N to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, then D 5) and 85km northwest of Marseille.

Instructions & Recommendations

We suggest combining this activity with a visit of Saint Remy de Provence, the Carrières des Lumières and the Chateau des Baux

Meta review

The archaeological site isn't very famous outside of Provence and yet, despite its small size, it does draw excellent reviews. Visitors enjoy the setting and the comprehensive explanations provided in both French and English. There are recurring tips to take a look at the hospital where Van Gogh was interned for a year which is just across the road, and to wear proper shoes when visiting as the ground is uneven.

Environmental & Social

Environmentally neutral. Helps preserve the architectural and historical heritage of the region and brings some economic influx to the surrounding villages.

Conclusion

Glanum is an extremely pleasing archaeological site worth being included on any regional itinerary for those passionate about Roman ruins. It may not be on the scale of other better-known monuments in Provence such as the Pont du Gard Aqueduct or the Arles amphitheatre but it is well documented, relatively uncrowded and in a beautiful natural environment with other tourist attractions in the vicinity.

Key positive

The site and ruins are of excellent quality

Comprehensive information provided

Key negative

Not very large

Suitability

Only partially accessible for visitors with reduced mobility who will probably need assistance to explore the site as the ground is very uneven and there are slopes

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
Last access to the monument 45 minutes before closing. Closed on 01 May, 11 Nov, 25 Dec, 01 Jan

av. transport time:0h 45m

est. visit time:1h 15m

Regulated hours

Start of Season 1:Apr, 01

Season 1

MONDAY09:30 - 18:00

TUESDAY09:30 - 18:00

WEDNESDAY09:30 - 18:00

THURSDAY09:30 - 18:00

FRIDAY09:30 - 18:00

SATURDAY09:30 - 18:00

SUNDAY09:30 - 18:00

Start of Season 2:Oct, 01

Season 2

MONDAY10:00 - 17:00

TUESDAY10:00 - 17:00

WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:00

THURSDAY10:00 - 17:00

FRIDAY10:00 - 17:00

SATURDAY10:00 - 17:00

SUNDAY10:00 - 17:00

Pricing
Age band
Age band
Regular price / pers.
Senior
65 - 99
€9
Adult
18 - 64
€9
Child
3 - 17
€0
Infant
0 - 2
€0
Free for EU nationals and French residents under 26yrs old

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