Musee d'Histoire et d'Archeologie exterior brick wall and door

Musee d'Histoire et d'Archeologie (History & Archaeology Museum), Antibes

Museum showcasing the history of Antibes through the ages

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Take a look into the ancient past of Antibes which includes some artefacts from the Greek occupation when the town was known as Antipolis.

The museum is located inside the Saint-André bastion, a fortress built in 1698 after the conflict between the monarchy and the count of Nice. The history of the collection began in the 16th century, with the discovery of Roman-Gaul inscriptions in the area.

It was founded in 1963, combining objects from archaeological sites both on land and under the sea that retrace the history of Antibes from the 7th century BC to the 5th century AD. The exhibition was extensively renovated in 2006, adding new objects and lots of information.

The collections include Etruscan ceramics, vases, mosaics and marble, housed in two vaulted gallery spaces. Among the most interesting, there is the first inscription in Antibes, on the Terpon stone, as well as ceramics ranging from the creation of the town in the 7th century BC to the Greek colony in the 1st century AD. There are also Roman and early medieval pieces, including mural paintings and mosaics.

The views from the museum's terrace are wonderful.

Visitor comments

"This little museum is well worth a visit to learn more about the history of Antipolis. Good display of artefacts, amphorae, mosaics. Funereal wall plaques very poignant, really made you think about the people who once lived here. Free tours are available in different languages. It is an easy 10 min walk along the coast from the old part of Antibes" - Trip Advisor
"Once you find it, you will open your eyes to all the rich history of the Antibes area. You realise there is so much to learn about the old village of Antibes. Some of the old buildings have ancient Roman parts built in to them, and did you know there are still parts of an old aqueduct system to be found that brought water to the old Antibes. Take 30 minutes and explore some of the history around us. Worth the visit." - Trip Advisor
"A very modest entry fee and an overall quick guide in English on the history of the museum. Thereafter the information is in French. Sets the scene well, giving the historic background to Antibes with lots of amphorae, coins and anchors - some artefacts going back to the Etruscans. Well worth a visit." - Trip Advisor