Marius debout sur les ruines de Carthage

Marius Standing on the Ruins of Carthage is a marble statue in the Jardin du Luxembourg that depicts the Roman general contemplating a destroyed city. The work sits on a base in the southern section of the garden and is easily accessible from several pathways.

Victor Vilain created this marble sculpture in 1861 on commission from the Interior Ministry. The work premiered at the Paris Salon that year and was later honored at the 1867 World's Fair.

The statue shows a moment of reflection in which Marius contemplates the fate of fallen power. It embodies ancient history in a public space and invites visitors to think about the transience of civilizations.

The statue sits in a large public garden in central Paris and can be viewed freely at any time. Early morning or overcast days offer the best light for appreciating the marble details and the composition.

The base bears the inscription Carthago next to the helmet and displays the artist's signature. These details make the work an authentic example of 19th-century artistic standards.

Location: 6th arrondissement of Paris

Creator: Victor Vilain

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

GPS coordinates: 48.84725,2.33787

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:25