Archaeological site of Olbia
The Greeks install their initial settlement by the sea in front of the present-day Almanarre beach. They call it “The Blessed Olbia”. In the 4th century B.C., it is a military and commercial outpost on the maritime route to Marseille (Massilia). Animal skins, corrals, oils, wine and especially salt are traded there. In the 2nd century A.D. the Romans establish the nearby galley halt of Pomponiana. The Roman town quickly expands and becomes an important spa-equipped town spreading until the Giens peninsula. This National Heritageclassified archaeological site is 66 acres wide and is the only example of a perfectly preserved Greek site on the French coast. It is opened to the public and offers guided tours as well as educational workshops for young groups. Olbia grants unique insight into the remnants of an Ancient town that survived over 500 years, including fortified walls, sewage and pavement infrastructures, residential dwellings, collective wells, sanctuaries and public spas. In the 13th century, an abbey was built on the ruins of this city abandoned in the 4th century A.D.
Classification/labels
- Historic patrimony
- Ruins and remains
- Archeological site
Spoken languages
- French
Tours
Languages of the visit
- English
- French
Individual
- Time of individual visit 60 Hours (average)
- Unguided individual tours available permanently
- Guided individual tours available permanently
- Guided individual tours on request
Groups
- Time of visit 90 Hours (average)
- Unguided group tours on request
- Guided group tours on request
Cultural activities
- Archeological digs
- History
Location
Comfort / services
- Car park
- Educational visits
- Guided tours
Prices
Adult: 5 €.Free entry for press, mountain guides, children accompanied by an adult, the students.
Means of payment
- Bank/credit card
- Cash