Discover The 2,500 Year-Old Ruins Of Olbia

The Architectural Site of Olbia is a special place to visit because it is the only spot in France where you can see the complete layout of an ancient Greek town. The word "Olbia" is known as "blessed city," this coastal treasure site is right across the Almanarre beach.

While many ruins that you can see today are just scattered rocks; Olbia is regarded as unique as archaeologists have unveiled the entire city plan, from its defensive walls to its ancient sewage systems.

A Town Built By Soldiers & Sailors

Constructed around 325 BC by Greek sailors from Marseille (then called Massalia), Olbia was originally built as a fortress. Its job was to basically provide protection to the trade ships from pirates and to serve as a stopover for sailors who travelled between Italy and Spain. The people who used to live here were a mix of soldiers, fisherman and farmers who grew food in the fertile soil nearby.

As per historians, around 49 BC, the Romans took over the region after Julius Caesar captured Marseille. They didn't destroy Olbia; instead, they modernized it by adding grand public baths and expanding the city’s trade network. Fast forward to the present day, you can see both Greek and Roman styles of architectural elements sitting side-by-side. 

Key Highlights Of The Architecture

When you walk through the site, you are walking through the steps of people who lived here 2,000 years ago. You can still see the original sidewalks and the advanced stone sewers that kept the city clean at that time.

Explorers have also found areas which were dedicated to the goddess of love, showing how important faith was to the early settlers. You can also notice seaside Roman baths, which are typically known as ancient “spas” built right near the water for relaxation.

If you are interested in seeking adventure, do visit the nearby beach to witness the remains of the ancient stone jetty sitting just beneath the surface. Later on in the 13th-century, a medieval Abbey called Saint-Pierre de I’Almanarre was built on top of some of the ruins, adding another layer of history to the site.

Why Is This Site Considered A ‘Travel Gem’

One of the best things about Olbia you can notice is how easy it is to visit. As it is right next to Almanarre Beach, you can spend an hour or two exploring the ruins and then walk across the street for a swim. It's considered a perfect family activity, combining education with a relaxing day on the French Riviera. 

Also Read: Basilica Saint-Michel: Menton's Most Stunning View

Planning Your Visit

If you are planning to visit the Archaeological Site of Olbia, there are a few practical details to keep in mind for your trip. The site is conveniently located on the Route de I’Almanarre in Hyères and is open seasonally from April through October. While it is typically closed on Tuesdays, it often remains open everyday during the peak summer months of July and August to accommodate more travellers.

Admission is quite budget-friendly at approximately €4 for adults and is usually free for those under 18, making it an excellent choice for families. For a deeper experience, you can pay an additional amount of €4 for a guided tour, which provides expert insights into the fascinating history of the excavations and the people who once lived there.