The Roman platform of Fréjus is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the city. It bears witness to ancient grandeur, mixing history and exciting discoveries.

Located at the entrance to the Roman agglomeration, it rests on an artificially created promontory. This site has long intrigued researchers.

Today, it has become an essential object of study and a future emblem of the city. Its development continues actively for the public.

Roman platform Fréjus

A monumental building, a mysterious history

Excavations by archaeologists such as Alphonse Donnadieu have brought to light the Roman cistern. This impressive rainwater reservoir has survived in excellent condition.

Over the years, these investigations gradually revealed the grandeur of the building. A domus, or monumental house, thus covered more than 6 square meters. In addition, the cistern could contain up to 000 m³ of water.

However, the precise dating of the platform remains a matter of debate among scholars. Some estimate that it was built in the late 50st century BC. Others believe it was built between 100 and XNUMX AD.

The function of this building also remains a mystery. Was it a private residence belonging to a powerful person or a public structure? Indeed, some researchers believe that it was an administrative prefecture.

The size of the site and its monumental character support this hypothesis. It could be a major administrative center of the Roman province.

The first remains of the Roman platform were observed as early as the 17th century, but it was not until the 19th century that serious excavations began. 

A large-scale hydraulic system

The excavations, carried out by archaeologists such as Alphonse Donnadieu, have brought to light the Roman cistern. This remarkable rainwater reservoir is well preserved to this day.

Over the years, research has revealed the grandeur of the building. A domus, or monumental house, covered more than 6 square meters. In addition, the cistern could hold up to 000 m³ of water.

However, the dating of the platform remains a matter of debate. Some scholars date it to the end of the 50st century BC. Others favor the period between 100 and XNUMX AD.

The function of this building remains uncertain. Was it a private residence or a public structure? Indeed, some believe that it was an administrative prefecture.

The scale and monumental nature of the site support this latter hypothesis. It would then have served as a major administrative centre for the Roman province.

Modern excavations and recent discoveries

Today, the Roman platform is the subject of meticulous archaeological excavations. Specialists such as Pierre Excoffon and Claudio Taffetani are leading these investigations.

Recently, excavations have uncovered valuable items. For example, a marble helmet representing the goddess Minerva was found in a water drain.

These discoveries confirm the importance of the building in the history of the city and the region. They provide essential new information.

Archaeologists are continuing their research to better understand the chronology of the site. Their goal is to date the different structures more precisely.

A key mission of these excavations is to define the exact function of the platform. Was it a private palace, an administrative center or a political meeting place? Experts are still trying to solve this mystery.

The future of the platform: opening up to the general public

Long hidden from the public eye, the Roman platform is now on its way to becoming a must-see site in Fréjus. Indeed, the development work has already begun. The aim is to preserve the space while making the site accessible to all.

The current project involves the development of a landscaped park around the site. The most important remains will be preserved, while presentation elements will be added. This will allow a better understanding of the place without overloading it with superfluous information.

This park is inspired by similar projects, such as the Jardin des vestiges in Marseille. There, ancient remains are beautifully integrated into a modern and accessible space.

In this perspective, the cistern, a true jewel of Roman architecture, will become one of the highlights of the site. The City of Fréjus wishes to enhance it to bring it into the 21st century.

Thus, the people of Fréjus and visitors will be able to discover this ancient monument in its remarkable state. Finally, it is planned to add raised walks. These strolls will allow you to discover the remains in a fluid and intuitive way.

A living heritage and a legacy to preserve

The Roman platform perfectly illustrates Roman genius in urban planning and hydraulic engineering. It bears witness to the capital importance of water in Roman civilization, which was able to develop rainwater supply and management networks of an unprecedented scale for the time.

Today, this heritage is being rediscovered. Not only for its historical value, but also for its ability to tell the story of Fréjus. It thus offers future generations a tangible link with Antiquity.

The work of enhancing the Roman platform is only just beginning. However, it already holds the promise of a living site, respectful of the past and looking to the future. The objective is clear: to transform this place into a central element of Fréjus' heritage and a reference for visitors from all over the world.

In the meantime, the site remains a place of mysteries and discoveries. Each stone, each vestige tells a part of the ancient history of the city.

The Roman platform of Fréjus is easily accessible from the city center. On foot, simply follow the signs to the historic site from the train station or the city center, about a 10-15 minute walk. If you arrive by car, parking is available nearby. Nearby bus stops also make access easy for those using public transport. Cyclists can use the cycle paths that serve the area

Entrance to the Roman platform of Fréjus is free.

Open. Closes at 20:00 p.m.
355 Avenue of the 15th Army Corps
83600 Fréjus
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