Tour Magne

About

Perched on a hill within the Jardins de la Fontaine, the Tour Magne—known locally as the Great Tower—is the single surviving vestige of the ancient Roman walls that once encircled Nîmes. Built in the 1st‑century AD and later remodified during Augustan times, the 36‑metre tower offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb the 140‑step stairwell to a small observation platform, discovering the tower’s layered history through free bilingual audio guides that narrate the legend of François Traucat’s hidden treasure. The tower also hosts an interactive sound‑guide where guests solve riddles to win a souvenir, adding a playful twist to the historical exploration. Open daily from early spring to late autumn, the Tour Magne welcomes scholars, families, and solo travelers alike, providing a unique glimpse into Nîmes’ Roman heritage amid the modern cityscape.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 30 minutes