Facing the ancient Maison Carrée, the Carré d’Art offers a striking contrast between Roman heritage and modern design. Created by architect Norman Foster, this light-filled cultural space opened in 1993 and has become a key part of Nîmes’ contemporary identity.

The building itself is worth a visit, with its clean lines, glass façades, and open interior that invites natural light throughout the space. Inside, you’ll find a collection focused on modern and contemporary art, along with temporary exhibitions that rotate throughout the year.

The real impact comes from stepping outside and seeing both buildings together. On one side, a perfectly preserved Roman temple. On the other, a minimalist modern structure. It’s one of the best examples in southern France of how ancient and contemporary architecture coexist in the same urban space.

👉 Local Tip: Visit the rooftop terrace if it’s open. You’ll get one of the best views of the Maison Carrée and the surrounding square.