Delve into the soul of Fréjus, this Roman city with timeless charm, where every stone whispers the story of a glorious past. Here, culture and heritage come together gracefully, and every street reveals jealously guarded secrets. Let yourself be seduced by captivating anecdotes and stories that make your heart beat, transforming your walk into an unforgettable immersion in the heart of Antiquity.
Designed for the curious and history lovers, this visit brings the past back to life to illuminate the present, offering a new perspective on the fascinating heritage of Fréjus. This founding and vibrant past will touch your heart and forever bind you to this imperishable city.
The 100% Roman visit!
Founded around 49 BCE by Julius Caesar, Forum Iulii — the future Fréjus — quickly gained prestige under the reign of Emperor Augustus, becoming one of the leading cities of the Empire. Today, this fascinating Roman past lives on through majestic remains that have defied the centuries.
Let Fréjus take you on a journey back in time! From the amphitheater where the roar of gladiators echoed, to the imposing pillars of the aqueduct, via the theater and the legendary paved road of the Porte des Gaules… each site will take you on a journey through time.
At the end of this 100% ancient visit, the Romans will no longer hold any secrets for you, and you will be left wanting to continue this epic journey, as the history of Fréjus is so rich, beautiful and unforgettable.
No guided tours the week of January 13, 2025. Tours will resume from Monday, January 20, 2025.
Every Monday and Thursday at 14:30 p.m. – Departure from the Tourist Office
In July and August on Mondays at 17:00 p.m. – departure from the Tourist Office
For groups, a guided tour is available tailored to the date and time of your choice – Information from the Tourist Office
The prices of “Fréjus Roman city”
| Categories | Admission fees |
|---|---|
| Full price | €8 |
| Reduced rate (12-17 years old) | €5 |
| Less than 12 years | Free |
The course
Theatre romain
Open to the surrounding landscape, the Roman theatre of Fréjus is a showcase dedicated to art, where actors, poets and musicians of Antiquity performed under the Mediterranean sky. This true crossroads of popular meetings has crossed the ages, bearing witness to a glorious past despite the wounds of abandonment and the inexorable passage of time.
Today, refurbished to regain its original function, the theater bears the name of Philippe Léotard, in homage to this actor whose heart was deeply anchored in Fréjus. Its contemporary structure, where steel harmoniously dialogues with the remains of a great civilization, makes it a unique place.
In just a few seconds, let yourself be carried away into the world of the “persona”, these tragic and comic theatre masks which came to life on stage, making the voices of the characters resonate right up to you…
A journey through time that will not fail to move you!
Roman aqueduct
Imagine a 42-kilometre masterpiece, a daring feat of engineering that rises 481 metres in height: the Roman aqueduct of Fréjus is a true monument to the grandeur of Antiquity.
For history buffs, antiquity enthusiasts, or even poets in search of inspiration, this aqueduct is an unparalleled source of wonder.
Victor Hugo himself succumbed to its charm, writing lyrically: "The new and complete aqueduct was doubtless beautiful two thousand years ago, but it was no more beautiful than this gigantic collapse spread over the whole plain, running, falling, rising again. The ivy and the bramble hanging over all these magnificences of Rome and Time."
Come and contemplate this grandiose heritage, where the beauty of nature and the power of history meet in an eternal dance.
Roman amphitheater
Proudly erected on the outskirts of the city, the Roman amphitheater of Fréjus stands majestically, an emblematic symbol of a rich and living heritage.
Built in the 1st century, this building could accommodate up to 12 spectators at its peak, while today it remains capable of accommodating around five thousand souls eager for a show.
Measuring 113 metres long and 85 metres wide, it reveals to us the heritage of a great people passionate about games, shows and legendary gladiatorial combats.
Over the centuries, the amphitheater has stood the test of time, its remains telling the story of its reuse in the service of the medieval and modern city.
Between 2008 and 2012, an ambitious conservation and enhancement project was initiated as part of the Ancient Heritage Plan, supported by the State and the Region, demonstrating the desire to preserve this historical jewel. According to architect Francesco Flavigny, the objective was clear: " Our goal in Fréjus is to reproduce the cavea in its exact geometry, but with contemporary materials. We will therefore create a protective envelope that will hover above the ruins without hiding them. »
Today, the amphitheater has regained its original purpose as a performance venue.
Imagine yourself, in the heart of this arena steeped in history, enveloped by the whisper of the past, felt in the echo of thousands of voices.
Whether standing alone in the center, where the grandeur of the place overwhelms you, or being transported by the energy of a live show, surrounded by five thousand spectators, each moment spent here promises an unforgettable experience, where emotion and beauty intertwine to create lasting memories.
Gate of Gaul
Today covered in stones and forgotten stories, the Porte des Gaules flourishes in all its splendor, adorned with wild caper bushes that boldly cross it.
Although it is impenetrable today, its monumental pillars proudly tell of the grandeur of an era when this gate was one of the four majestic entrances to the Roman city.
Like a romantic painting, where nature and old stones meet in a timeless dance, the Porte des Gaules reveals itself and hides itself from our gaze, as if by magic.
It appears and disappears as we contemplate it, leaving room for our imagination. We can almost feel the murmur of the passers-by of yesteryear, the horsemen and carts rolling on the paved road, witnesses to a vibrant life that resonated within these walls.
To learn more about Fréjus' heritage
Why choose Fréjus, a Roman city? Advice from Jérémy Haverbeque, tour guide at the Fréjus Tourist Office
For Jérémy, our tour guide, this visit is the ideal opportunity to discover Fréjus from a new angle:
- To walk among two thousand year old ruins and understand why Fréjus is one of the oldest cities in France.
- And to admire the incredible genius of the Roman builders, whose constructions still defy time and admiring glances.
To find out more about Fréjus
