Sisteron, the pearl of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, does not just rely on its magnificent landscape of mountains and rivers. It also hides an invaluable treasure: the Gallo-Roman museum, located in the heart of the city, at 8 rue Saunerie, in the Hôtel d’Ornano. A true window into Antiquity, this museum takes you on a captivating journey through time, where history and archaeology meet to reveal the mysteries of Gallo-Roman civilization.
A thematic path around ancient funerary rites
The Gallo-Roman museum of Sisteron is renowned for its exceptional collection highlighting the funerary practices of the Gallo-Romans. Here you will discover lapidary objects, metal pieces, glass, ceramics, and ancient coins. Each of these artifacts tells a part of the story of the cult of the dead in the Gallo-Roman era. Special mention is given to the impressive set from a mausoleum dating from the late 1st century to the early 2nd century, built by a wealthy Gallo-Roman family from Sisteron.
One of the centerpieces of this exhibition is the archaeological furniture resulting from the excavations of the mausoleum of Bevons, generously loaned by the State and DRAC PACA. These artifacts bear witness to the wealth and sophistication of funerary customs of the time. The arrangement of the objects allows visitors to immerse themselves in the past and understand how death was perceived and honored among the Gallo-Romans.
Temporary exhibitions to vary artistic pleasures
The museum does not just rely on its permanent exhibition: a 100 m² room is dedicated to temporary exhibitions that change with the seasons. Whether it is painting, sculpture, or photography, this space allows exploration of different facets of art, often related to history and culture. This dynamic exhibition room attracts both contemporary art lovers and those wishing to deepen their historical knowledge.
Services and facilities for optimal comfort
The museum is equipped to ensure maximum comfort for its visitors. With an on-site bookstore, enthusiasts can extend their visit by purchasing books and souvenirs related to the exhibitions. Tourist documentation and information services are also available, making it easier to discover Sisteron and its surroundings.
The museum has a projection room, nearby parking, restrooms, and an elevator compliant with standards to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users. All these facilities aim to make the visit as pleasant and enriching as possible.
Practical information for planning your visit
The Gallo-Roman museum of Sisteron is open at different times of the year:
- From July 8 to September 1, 2024: the museum opens its doors on Monday and Sunday from 2:30 PM to 7 PM, and from Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM and from 2:30 PM to 7 PM.
- From September 2, 2024, to January 4, 2025: it is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 AM to 12 PM and from 2 PM to 6 PM.
Entrance to the museum is free, making it an accessible cultural activity for all. Guided tours are available by reservation for groups of 10 to 30 people, at a fee of €30. Don’t forget to book in advance to secure your spot!
A museum rooted in history and open to the world
The Gallo-Roman museum of Sisteron does not just exhibit ancient objects; it tells a story, that of a city with a rich historical past, at the crossroads of civilizations. Through its exhibitions and cultural programming, it contributes to enhancing local heritage and enriching the cultural experience of its visitors.
For more information, visit the official Sisteron website (www.sisteron.fr), or follow them on their Facebook page to stay updated on upcoming events and exhibitions. Contact the museum by phone at 04 92 61 58 40 or by email at musee.archeo@sisteron.fr for any questions.
