Porte Dorée de Fréjus

The Porte Dorée in Fréjus is a stone and brick structure featuring mixed masonry that displays characteristics of ancient Roman architecture. It was originally part of a larger complex of thermal facilities near the ancient port.

This structure was built in the third century as part of Roman bath facilities in the ancient city. Its remains show how grand and organized the thermal complexes were that shaped Roman daily life.

The name Porte Dorée comes from golden-headed nails discovered during early excavations, which inspired its distinctive designation.

The structure is located on Rue des Moulins in Fréjus and remains accessible to visitors year-round near other Roman monuments. To explore the site fully, visit it together with other archaeological sites scattered across the town.

Despite its name, the structure was not actually a gate but an arcade from the Roman baths. This misidentification persisted for decades until archaeological research clarified its true function.