Maison Carrée

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the grandeur of Roman architecture as you explore the Maison Carrée in Nîmes, France. This ancient temple, whose name translates to Square House, stands as one of the best-preserved Roman temples in the world. A visit to the Maison Carrée offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural prowess and cultural significance of the Roman Empire.

The History of Maison Carrée

The Maison Carrée was constructed between 10 BCE and 4 CE during the reign of Augustus. This magnificent temple was originally dedicated to Augustus’s grandsons, Lucius Caesar and Gaius Caesar, who were both consuls and military leaders. The dedication is a testament to the significance of the imperial cult and the reverence held for the emperor's family in Roman society.

During the Roman era, the Maison Carrée was part of the forum, the bustling center of civic life in Nîmes. The forum itself was a grand space, measuring 80 meters in length and flanked by double porticoes on the east and west sides. To the south, the forum was enclosed by a blind wall adorned with pilasters, while the north was marked by a rectangular building identified as the curia.

Architectural Marvel

The Maison Carrée is a stunning example of hexastyle Corinthian architecture, characterized by its six-columned facade. The temple measures 13.54 meters in width and 26.42 meters in length, with thirty columns standing at 9 meters high each, encircling the inner structure. This inner structure consists of a cella (the main chamber) measuring 10.50 meters by 16 meters, preceded by a pronaos (the porch) with a modern ceiling.

One of the most striking features of the Maison Carrée is its elevated position atop a podium that rises 2.65 meters above the ground. This design element not only enhances the temple's visual impact but also underscores its importance within the cityscape. Access to the cella was originally restricted to priests, who would ascend a grand staircase of fifteen steps to perform their rituals.

The architectural style of the Maison Carrée is a harmonious blend of Etruscan and Greek influences. The temple's plan and use of the Corinthian order are reminiscent of Greek temples, while the pseudo-peripteral layout, with engaged columns along the sides and rear, reflects a distinctly Roman adaptation. This design creates a rhythmic and dynamic facade, drawing inspiration from the Temple of Apollo in Rome.

From Antiquity to the Middle Ages

Over the centuries, the Maison Carrée has undergone numerous transformations, reflecting the changing needs and fortunes of Nîmes. During the medieval period, from the 11th to the 16th centuries, the temple was repurposed as the consular house of Nîmes, serving as a sort of town hall. It was during this time that the building was referred to as the Capitole or Cap-duel.

The interior of the Maison Carrée was extensively modified to accommodate its new function. Walls were erected to create multiple rooms and even two floors, with vaulted ceilings, chimneys, and spiral staircases added. Square windows were cut into the walls to provide light for these new spaces. Despite these alterations, the exterior of the temple remained largely intact.

In the subsequent centuries, the Maison Carrée served various roles, including a residence, a stable, and an Augustinian church. During the French Revolution, it became the meeting place for the Directoire and later housed the prefecture of the Gard department. In 1824, the temple was transformed into a museum of antiquities, showcasing artifacts from the region's rich history.

Restoration and Preservation

The Maison Carrée has been the subject of numerous restoration efforts aimed at preserving its architectural integrity and historical significance. In the 19th century, a Latin inscription was added to the west side of the temple, commemorating its restoration. More recently, in 1992, a new roof was installed, faithfully replicating the original Roman design with handmade tiles.

In 1993, the renowned British architect Norman Foster designed the Carré d'Art, a contemporary art museum located opposite the Maison Carrée. Foster's design aimed to create a dialogue between the ancient and the modern, seamlessly integrating the new building into the historic urban fabric of Nîmes.

The most extensive restoration project in recent years took place between 2006 and 2010, during which the temple's facades were meticulously cleaned and repaired. This effort restored the Maison Carrée to its former glory, allowing visitors to appreciate its pristine white stone and intricate decorative elements.

Visiting Maison Carrée Today

Today, the Maison Carrée stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman architecture and the rich history of Nîmes. Managed by Edeis under the supervision of a scientific committee, the temple continues to captivate visitors from around the world. While the interior decor has not survived the passage of time, the exterior remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome.

As you explore the Maison Carrée, take a moment to reflect on the centuries of history that have unfolded within its walls. From its origins as a Roman temple to its various roles throughout the ages, the Maison Carrée is a living monument to the resilience and adaptability of human civilization. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, a visit to the Maison Carrée is an unforgettable journey through time.