Arles Museum of Antiquity

The Arles Museum of Antiquity (Musée départemental de l'Arles Antique, also known as Arles Antique or Musée Bleu - the Blue Museum) is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone eager to explore the rich Roman heritage of Arles. This museum offers a fascinating journey through time with its extensive collection of artifacts from the ancient world including a reconstructed Roman barge (Arles Rhône 3), the bust of Caesar, numerous magnificent mosaics and statues.

The Arles Museum of Antiquity and the famous bust of Julius Caesar


In 2007, archaeologists directed by Luc Long, made a groundbreaking discovery in the Rhône River near Arles: the oldest known bust of Julius Caesar. This remarkable artifact, along with over 600 other objects unearthed from the Rhône, has brought international fame to the museum. These treasures are now proudly displayed, providing visitors with an unparalleled glimpse into the city's Roman past. 
Luc Long is a French underwater archaeologist. He is best known for the discoveries made with his team in the Rhône in 2004 of the Roman barge Arles-Rhône 3 and, in 2007, of the presumed bust of Caesar.
The museum is particularly valued for its educational approach, making it a perfect destination for families, students, and history lovers.

Visit and tickets for The Arles Museum of Antiquity

The Musée Départemental Arles Antique offers the following admission prices:

  • General Admission: €8
  • Reduced Rate: €5 (applicable to groups of more than 10 people, visitors over 65, holders of specific cards such as Entraide Solidarité 13, large families, adults accompanying "Collégien de Provence" cardholders, and holders of a Provence Prestige ticket during the salon period) 
  • Free Admission: Available for individuals under 18, job seekers, RSA beneficiaries, disabled persons, students, teachers with a Pass Education, journalists, museum curators, ICOM cardholders, Ministry of Culture staff, guides from the Caisse Nationale des Monuments Historiques, Pass My Provence ambassadors (when accompanied by a full-price visitor), and members of "Les Amis du Vieil Arles" 
  • Free Admission: Offered on the first Sunday of each month 
  • Guided Tours: Available for individuals every Sunday at 3:00 PM, and during July and August on Mondays, Thursdays, and Sundays at 3:00 PM. Thematic visits are offered two Sundays per month at 11:00 AM. An additional fee of €3 applies, and reservations are not required

Address: Presqu'île du Cirque-Romain
BP 205 13635 Arles Cedex, France
Official website: Arles Antique 

Opening Hours
Open every day: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Closed on Tuesdays
Last entry: 5:30 PM
Closed on: January 1st, May 1st, November 1st, and December 25th

Access
By Bus:Take Line 1, stop at "Palais des Congrès."
For schedules and stops, check the local public transport service.
By Bicycle: Follow the cycle path along the quay to the museum.
Use Taco and Co, a local bike-taxi service:
Contact: +33 (0)6 50 29 60 00
Website: www.tacoandco.fr
On Foot: From the Amphitheater (Arènes): 20 minutes.
From the Place du Forum: 15 minutes.

Tickets and tours to visit Arles and Camargue

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