The coasts of Provence were crisscrossed very early on by Phoenician, Greek, Celtic and Roman sailors. Numerous remains bear witness to this prosperous past: remains of towns, villages and trading posts, and wrecks have been rediscovered during excavation campaigns. The archeological museum of Saint-Raphaël highlights the most precious archeological finds, torn from the Mediterranean seabed.
Collections
More than 3,000 different pieces await visitors to the archeological museum in Saint-Raphaël.
Numerous amphoras bear witness to the intense maritime traffic that reigned in this part of the Mediterranean several thousand years ago. These vessels with pointed ends and handles to facilitate their handling were used to transport wine, oil, beer, fish sauces, etc. Valuable pieces have also been found, such as a Dionysius mask found near Golfe-Juan in the 1960’s. The museum also presents reconstructions: it is possible to admire the reconstruction of an ancient anchor. Vestiges dating from prehistory and the Bronze Age are also on display.
Visitors can also discover instruments used during underwater excavations, such as diving suits.
Exhibitions and activities
The Archeology Museum usually hosts three temporary exhibitions each year.
Playful tours with iPad allow you to discover the menhirs, the dolmens, but also the tools of the life of the first men who lived in the Esterel Massif during prehistory. The interactivity offered by the iPad also allows you to dive into the heart of the collections, in search of Roman shipwrecks. The undergrounds are also rediscovered in a different way through the screen.
Archaeology courses are offered to the youngest visitors. During workshops, children can learn about prehistoric and antique pottery, cave painting, archeological excavation methods and medieval architecture.
The medieval church and the tower
The temporary exhibitions are housed in a former medieval church. Listed as a Historical Monument, the building is a wonderful testimony to Provencal Romanesque art. The crypts and underground passages are accessible to visitors, who can also climb the fortified tower. The ascent will be rewarded by a remarkable panorama: the summit terrace, equipped with an orientation table, offers a breathtaking view of the sea, the town and the surrounding landscapes.
Practical information
Schedule and opening days vary depending on the period:
- From November to February: open from Tuesday afternoon to Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- From March to June and October: open from Tuesday afternoon to Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- From July to September: open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Prepare your visit to the underwater archeology museum of Saint-Raphaël:
- Visiting time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Address: Rue de la Vieille Église 83700 Saint-Raphaël
- Website: https://www.ville-saintraphael.fr/cultivee/musees/musee-archeologique
Selection of museums in Var :
