Centre des monuments nationaux

Come and discover the Trophy of Augustus perched above the Bay of Monaco at La Turbie, one of the few buildings of its kind still standing. This was the highest point on the old via Julia Augusta and the spot dominates the entire French Riviera from Estérel to the Italian coast.

Visiting the Trophy of Augustus at La Turbie 

• A monumental building. The monument was originally topped with a giant statue of the emperor, and stood over 50 metres high. Some of the 24 original columns of the round aedicule may still be admired, along with sculptures, Doric capitals and a dedicatory inscription in Carrara marble. 

• A small museum. Casts of remains, photographs of the digs, and especially a model made by Jean-Camille and Jules Formigé, who rebuilt the trophy in situ in the early 20th century, provide an overview of the building.

Understanding the Trophy of Augustus at La Turbie 

• A victory monument. The trophy of Augustus was built in 6 BC in honour of Octavius, Caesar's nephew and later Emperor Augustus, following the subjugation of the peoples of the Alps. It stands at the frontier between Gaul and proclaims the unity and power of the Roman Empire. 

• A deified Emperor. Trophies were traditionally dedicated to the gods of victory. The Trophy of Augustus is part of the landscape of a shrine devoted to Heracles Monoikos, which gave rise to the name Monaco. Augustus is thus assimilated to Heracles-Hercules, a demi-god who had been promised immortality on carrying out his twelve tasks.