Aquae Sextiae, Roman archaeological site in Provence, France
Aquae Sextiae was a Roman city built near natural hot springs and is now preserved as an archaeological site within Aix-en-Provence. The foundations of baths, temples, and homes lie scattered beneath and alongside the modern city.
The city was founded in 123 BC by Roman commander Gaius Sextius Calvinus to establish a military colony at the hot springs. It became an important settlement in Gaul before eventually fading as populations shifted.
The Roman remains show how residents used public spaces and organized their community life. Temples and baths still reveal the central role these buildings played in daily routines.
The remains are scattered across the modern city, so visiting a museum or joining a guided tour helps make sense of what you see. It is helpful to gather information beforehand, as not all sites are clearly marked.
The same warm springs that attracted Romans over 2000 years ago continue to flow beneath the city at a constant temperature. This geothermal activity has kept the area known for its thermal waters to this day.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
