Musée Vesunna, Archaeological museum in Périgueux, France
Vesunna is an archaeological museum in Périgueux featuring a modern glass structure by Jean Nouvel that shelters the remains of a first-century Roman house with painted wall decorations. The ancient building displays rooms for receiving guests, a kitchen area, and a peristyle courtyard surrounded by columns.
The house beneath the museum dates to the first century and belonged to a wealthy family in the Roman city of Vesunna. Systematic excavations between 1959 and 1995 uncovered this residence with its detailed architectural features intact.
The exhibition displays objects from daily life in Gallo-Roman times, including pottery, tools, and jewelry that show how the Petrocorii people lived. These items come directly from the excavation and help visitors understand the routines and concerns of ancient residents.
Visiting works best during regular opening hours, which vary by season. Audio guides and guided tours are available to help understand the excavation and displayed objects.
Visitors can observe the ancient ruins from elevated walkways that run through the interior of the modern glass structure. This design allows a view from above of how the original house was organized and where excavations took place.
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