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History buff

A trip to the Riviera Menton & Merveilles area is a journey back in time in the footsteps of the people who made history! From mankind’s origins to the present day, historical milestones have left us with outstanding ruins you won’t find anywhere else…

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Prehistory,

once upon a time man

Do you fancy following in the footsteps of people who lived in the Menton Rivera & Merveilles area over a million years ago? From the coast to the Mercantour foothills, nowhere else in the world tells the story of early humans the way it’s told here. Caves, cave art, outdoor museum in the Valley of Wonders: Prehistory is very much alive and kicking! Let’s start our adventure at the Menton Regional Prehistory Museum meeting early man. Then head to the Museum of Wonders which unlocks the doors to the Valley of Wonders, the biggest open-air museum in Europe!

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In the footsteps of the Romans,

2000 years of history await!

The Menton Riviera & Merveilles area is jam-packed with Roman history. History buffs, children and adults simply have to walk in the Romans’ footsteps on the famous Via Julia Augusta. Augustus founded the road to reach Italy and avoid the mountains in winter. The legendary road is home to outstanding Roman ruins, the majestic Trophy of Augustus in La Turbie, Mont des Mules, a Ligurian oppidum at the top of Beausoleil, Lumone Tomb in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and so much more. You’re in for a fun, family-friendly experience in the great outdoors!

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In the

Middle Ages…

The Lascaris-Ventimiglia counts in the region were behind the fortresses, castles and medieval villages that sprang up to protect the area. Towns and villages appeared around these forts: Menton, Roquebrune, Sospel and La Brigue. You’re in for a medieval adventure throughout this land. Prepare for a trip back in time. Destination: the Middle Ages!

The strategic

salt road!

Salt was a heavily-taxed trade item and precious gem in the Middle Ages. Families had to pay a heavy tax called the “gabelle” which is why there were often fatal battles in the mountain valleys as people wanted to protect the privileges they’d fought so hard for. The salt road was laid during Charlemagne’s time and became a strategic communication channel. It now brings the history of salt transport to life in the Tende area on the Italian border.

Fortifications and military heritage

that capture history…

A unique horizon, turbulent history, the need to defend and protect our area all helped build the French Riviera’s outstanding fortified heritage. The defensive barrier runs non-stop along the Franco-Italian border, from Authion to Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: Maginot Line forts, coastal forts, Sainte-Agnès Fort and Cap Martin Fort to name but a few… A unique slice of history to explore alone, with family or in a group! Children and adults will be blown away by these military structures that capture an exciting history that played out against these fascinating mountains!

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Hit the History routes

If you’re looking for a full-on experience then take to our themed routes! Soak up the area’s history and take your pick from the Prehistory and Fort Routes to the Baroque Route and Salt Road.

Other activities

to explore

The Côte d’Azur's green lung

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Art and inspiration

Themed routes