Ready for a trip down memory lane? Lace up your sneakers and join the ranks of Legion VIII Octavia for a tour that takes you to the heart of the Roman Empire!
Guided by soldiers in period costume, explore Fréjus like a true Roman citizen: from the ramparts to the aqueducts and the amphitheater, you will relive the power of Rome through its monuments and discover the daily life of these conquerors.
Between discipline, demonstrations and captivating anecdotes, dive into an immersive, educational and fun adventure for all. Ancient Rome has never been so close!
A journey 2000 years back in time!
Want to go back in time to the Roman era?
This tour is made for you!
Accompanied by an armed Roman legion, the amphitheater, the theater and the aqueduct are revealed in a new light.
Children and adults, let yourself be transported to Antiquity!
You will discover the secrets of military maneuvers, combat demonstrations and much more.
Reservation required at the Tourist Office
Join the Roman legionnaires in the summer of 2025.
Please note that this visit includes the same steps as the visit to “Fréjus, Roman city”
Prices for the “in the footsteps of the Roman legionaries” tour
| Categories | Admission fees |
|---|---|
| Full price | €15 |
| Reduced rate (4-12 years old) | €10 |
| Less than 4 years | Free |
LEG VII OCTAVIA FRÉJUS
The VIII Octavia legion, led by enthusiasts from Fréjus (the Forum Iulii of yesteryear), brings Roman history back to life. This association, dedicated to historical reenactment, brings the daily life of these legendary soldiers back to life.
A former Roman colony founded by Julius Caesar, Fréjus was a strategic center and a leading military port in the Mediterranean. Thanks to the enthusiasts of the Legion VIII Octavia, you will discover the life of the legionnaires with fascinating historical precision: equipment, combat techniques and often harsh living conditions.
Each element, from armor to everyday objects, is meticulously reconstructed according to in-depth research – ancient texts, bas-reliefs, archaeological discoveries.
A rigorous and playful immersion that brings history back to life and reveals little-known facets of Roman life. A unique opportunity to discover this era, both demanding and fascinating.
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.
To learn more about heritage in Fréjus
Why choose "in the footsteps of the Roman legionnaires"? 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 live the Roman experience to the end! Take up arms and leave with your souvenir photo with the legionnaires.
- Because a real spectacle awaits you: combat demonstrations, maneuvers – a dive into the daily life of the legionnaires!
