It is worth paying a visit to this comemorative monument, this is the only structure of this type still existing. It was erected in the 1st century BC to the glory of emperor Augustus. A guide will take you up and tell you about the history of the monument. There is also a small museum nearby the structure, with maquetes and video show about the reconstruction of the monument. The monument itself is spetacular, besides, the view from the top is amazing.
I cannot rate it properly, because I only saw it from the outside and at night when it was closed for visitors. It looked impressive and I definitely want to return to visit it and learn more about it. The village of La Turbie is also very neat and roman-style. Worth a visit. Great views of Monaco and the Med from there as well.
Not just as the Romans built it as monument celebrating Augustus victory over Ligurian and Celtic tribes but still impressive. Locals used the parts for building and the statue of the victorious emperor is long gone. Thanks to ancient historians and will-power of their successors the place was restored at least to a reminder of its ancient glory.
If you in your travels pass by La Turbie, go see the " Trophy " quite a history attached to it and you can take the tour with a guide.
The site itself is pretty and scenic, and the ruins are picturesque, but the same view can be seen from the hill above the town cemetery for free. The top of the trophy is also visible throughout La Turbie.The museum itself leaves much to be desired. There is an informative video about the reconstruction (now out of date) of the monument, but there are serious problems with the rest of the little museum. There are two Roman inscriptions, both obviously and carelessly mislabeled. Signs offer information on the monument's 19th-20th century excavation and partial reconstruction but little information on the historical context of the monument itself. You will find out very little about the Alpine campaigns, Augustus, or the people who lived in the Alps during the visit. Some of the staff were well informed and very helpful; others were not. I have seen many fine small museums around ancient sites; this is not one of them.The site has a policy that once you leave you can not be readmitted, even if you leave just for lunch. Given that the site receives so few visitors, the policy is absurd. I had attempted to go back to afternoon to take photos of the main inscription in raking light (the main inscription is not as visible in the morning and is best viewed in the afternoon light) and was rudely informed that reentry was not possible even on the same day. Postcard worthy pictures can be taken from elsewhere in the village, and those interested in history will find the site's presentation wanting.
Great stop on a trip to Monaco with an impressive view in a quaint little village. Nice and relaxing and a good place to visit. Seemed Italian but is in France. This monument weathered much since before the birth of Christ. Must appreciate the historical significance. Magnificent at the very least. Stop and have an espresso, enjoy the view, and step back in time. Had beautiful weather and continued onto Monaco. Good for families, couples and solo tourists. Wish I stayed longer and walked around more.
We loved visiting this site, especially when the guide took us up and into the ruins themselves... be forwarned, there are LOTS of stairs! But the views are simply grand from the top. The guide was exceedingly helpful and informative. If you're into Roman ruins and/or artifacts, you'll really enjoy this visit.
We stopped at the museum while driving on the Grand Corniche. The views were fantastic, and I spent a good part of the visit looking towards the ocean. The Trophaeum itself was impressive through it's sheer size, and it's uniqueness, but past that there is not that much to see. And as we found later on, a lot of it was reconstructed and reimagined, while I am more impressed (maybe wrongly so) by structures who stood the test of time better. All in all, it's good in combination with corniche driving and Eze, but i wouldnt make it the purpose of a special visit.
In the nine years that I have had a property in Nice, yesterday was the first time I visited the "Trophy of Augustus" at La Turbie. Goodness knows why it took me so long! First, here's how I recommend you prepare for your visit, if you have the time that is. Look up the monument on Wikipedia, to get up to speed on what it is all about. It's also worth taking a quick look at Augustus Caesar, who founded the Roman Empire when the Republic collapsed. He brought the famous Pax Romana to the territories of the Roman Empire, and was regarded as a god (his life overlaps with Jesus Christ, Son of God in human form). In antiquity the Greeks erected trophies after major battles. The Romans famously went in for triumphal arches. Moreover, victorious generals were offered a "triumph" in Rome, a huge celebratory procession etc (look up "Roman Triumph") Augustus built a Trophy at Actium to commemorate the famous naval victory in 31 BC, but none of this survives.The Trophy of Augustus is an exceptional memorial, uniquely so, to the mighty Roman Empire. This immense rubble pile marks the extension of the Roman Empire into western Europe. The situation of the monument is superb. It is at the highest point of the Via Julia, the road which Augustus had built to encourage trade between Italy and Gaul. Even today the approach along the Corniche from the east splendidly shows the monument ahead. The Via Julia, started by Augustus in 13 BC terminated at La Turbie, and was only later extended to Arles.For those interested in the history of the Roman Empire this attraction is "must see". The heavily restored monument is, well, monumental. It is set in an attractive park where the trees and plants are local Mediterranean species. There are several fabulous panoramic viewpoints - the visit is worth it for these alone: altitude 500m, horizon distance 100 km, look down on all those rich people in Monaco!It is set in a small park. The information boards around the monument and in the small museum are excellentThis attraction is not suitable for a wet dayIf you have found my review helpful then please give me a helpful boat
2 adults, 2 under 18s 11 euros including guided tour. Guided tours are, as far as I remember, on the hour 10, 11, 3, 4, 5 . Ie only 5 a day. Get there 10 mins early if you are entering by the bottom gate as tours start at the monument at the top. Near the bottom gate are spectacular views of Monaco, worth the detour alone!