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Museum · Arles, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Musée départemental Arles antique
The archaeology museum of Arles, in a blue building on the banks of the Rhône, with mosaics, sarcophagi, a 31-metre Roman boat taken from the river and the bust attributed to Julius Caesar.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Musée départemental Arles antique
The Musée départemental Arles antique, known as the Blue Museum for the colour of the building, opened in 1995 in a building by architect Henri Ciriani. It stands on the banks of the Rhône, on the site of the ancient Roman circus, whose remains can be seen from the outside. The collection tells the history of the region from prehistory to the end of Antiquity.
The best-known item is Arles-Rhône 3, a 31-metre Roman cargo boat found in the bed of the Rhône, removed from the water and restored from 2011, and displayed since 2013 in a wing built for it. Beside it are the amphorae and objects found with the vessel.
The museum also has one of the largest collections of early Christian sarcophagi outside Rome, many coming from the Alyscamps, mosaics from Roman houses, models of the ancient city and sculptures. The bust attributed to Julius Caesar, found in the Rhône in 2007, is another highlight. The replica of the Venus of Arles recalls the original statue, now in the Louvre.
The visit is all on one level, with good accessibility. There are also temporary exhibitions.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1.5 to 2 hours.
Best time
At any time; it's a good option for rainy days or very hot weather. The museum usually closes on Tuesdays. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
About a 15-minute walk from the centre, following the Rhône quay to the southwest. There are city buses that stop nearby; check the lines.
Tip
Start with the Arles-Rhône 3 boat and the sarcophagi room. Combine with the Alyscamps or with LUMA on the same day, by taxi or on foot via the boulevard des Lices.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Musée départemental Arles antique
What is the Arles-Rhône 3?
It is a 31-meter Roman cargo ship from the 1st century, found on the bottom of the Rhône in 2004 and recovered from the water in 2011. It is displayed in its own wing of the museum.
On which day is the museum closed?
It usually closes on Tuesdays and on certain public holidays. Check before you go.
Is the museum far from the center?
About a 15-minute walk along the Rhône quay. It is closer to the Roman circus than to the arena.