Classics school trips to Provence

One of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world, Maison Carrée is a remarkable excursion for Classics students. The temple is known for its impressive architectural design, characterised by its rectangular shape and its iconic Corinthian columns. Built around 16 BC, it was initially dedicated to the grandsons of Emperor Augustus, but later served other purposes as a church and a town hall.

The awe-inspiring Nîmes Amphitheatre is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in existence today. Built in the first century AD, the amphitheatre held more than 24,000 spectators, who would turn up to watch gladiatorial games and events. As students walk through the arena's multitude of labyrinthine corridors and levels, they'll be able to imagine the excitement and the roar of the crowd.

Dive into the rich history of the Roman Empire at the Romanite Museum, with its impressive collection of Roman artefacts, stunning sculptures, intricate mosaics, and well-preserved ancient pottery. The exhibits here provide valuable insights into the daily life, art, and architecture of the Roman era. The museum is also housed in a beautiful building, blending modern design with ancient Roman influences.

Dating back to the 1st century, the Tour Magne is a remarkable example of Roman engineering and offers panoramic views of the city. While the tower was originally part of the city's fortifications, it today serves as a symbol of the city's rich history and heritage.

A remarkable historical site in Nimes, the "Temple of Diana" showcases the architectural prowess of the ancient Romans. Though the structure is named after the Roman goddess, there is no archaeological or literary evidence for its dedication to her; similarly, its basilica-like floor plan argues against it being a temple (it's been suggested that it was used as a library or monastery). That said, its complex facade stands as a testament to the grandeur and sophistication of Roman engineering.

Of the eight monuments in Arles listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Roman amphitheatre is undoubtedly the most emblematic. Built in 90AD, the arena would accommodate up to 21,000 spectators for gladiatorial games. With its circular inner and outer galleries, horizontal passageways and alternating staircases, the amphitheatre is an ingenious example of Roman construction. The building is also surprisingly large, measuring over 130m in length.

Standing at 49 meters, the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard is the highest Roman aqueduct bridge in the world. Built by the Romans in the 1st century AD, the bridge crosses the river Gardon, and marks the path the ancient Romans used to carry water over 50 kilometres to Nemausus (Nimes). Nearly a thousand men worked on this colossal project, and completed it in just 5 years.

Built near the remains of the Roman circus in Arles, the Arles Antique Museum sits in a picturesque location on the banks of the Rhone. With exhibits including beautifully preserved mosaics, statues, and everyday objects from the Roman period, the museum provides an abundance of fascinating material for students interested in ancient history and archaeology.

At the heart of the magnificent Alpilles mountains, the archaeological site at Glanum features the remains of an important Roman settlement that prospered from the 6th century BC to the third century AD. This fascinating site includes the ruins of both civic and religious edifices, and is unique in Provence.

Explore the significance of water in Roman society at this museum, where your students will be led through scenes of daily life as they learn about the construction and use of the highest Roman bridge in the world. Through an immersive scenography, you'll be transported back in time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this remarkable era.

An ancient Roman bath complex, the Baths of Constantine offer a glimpse into the daily life of the Roman Empire while showcasing the advanced engineering and design skills of that era. The baths were a central part of Roman society, serving as a place for relaxation, socialising, and maintaining good health. On your visit, students can study the layout of the complex, and learn about the site's various rooms.

Don't miss this trio of excursions when you visit the French commune of Orange. The town's Roman Theatre, a UNESCO site, is one of the most beautiful legacies left by imperial Rome, providing an outstanding testimony to antiquity. Also on the UNESCO list is the Arc de Triomphe, which served as the gateway to the Roman city of Arausio. Meanwhile, the nearby museum is housed in a private mansion and features creative and historical artefacts.

Nestled amid the hilly olive grove countryside of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region of France, Vaison-la-Romaine is a town famous for its rich Roman ruins and cathedral. It's unusual in the way the town's departments lie close together: on one side of the Ouvèze, you'll find the "upper city" (Colline du Château) while the "lower city" (Colline de la Villasse) is located on the opposite bank.