Fragments of painted coatings, tesselles, ceramics and especially impressive Roman vestiges uncovered last month. The archaeological excavations carried out by the Grand Reims since October 2023 under the Museum of Fine Arts, in full metamorphosisallow you to learn more about Durocortorum, Latin name of Reims (Marne). A Roman residential area has been uncovered, as well as Vestiges of Saint-Denis Abbey.
The discovery of vestiges of Roman thermal baths, dating from the 2nd or 3rd century AD, is particularly impressive. “These are the most spectacular, for the ancient Roman part,” says Régis Bontrond, head of preventive operations for the Archaeological Service of Grand Reims. “This thermal complex was not listed, and we did not expect to find one here. The walls are particularly well preserved. We have identified remains of paintings that decorated the pieces, there are patterns with birds and plants. »»
Despite the spectacular aspect of this discovery, there is no question of valuing these imposing vestiges, and the end of the excavations remains scheduled for the end of June 2025. This labyrinth of parts will be dismantled, Pierre by Pierre, to deliver all the secrets of its construction. The reconstruction site of the Museum of Fine Arts continues, in parallel. Scientific excavation and these recent discoveries do not change the initial plan.
Additional research on the Gallic layer
“If we wanted to enhance these vestiges,” notes Régis Bontrond, “that would force us to stop the excavation and the site. We are just going to search the walls, draw the stones and mechanically dismantle these vestiges. They are deconstructed to understand and date the whole. And then we will be interested in the lower Gallic layer. »»
In addition, a drone made it possible to make vestiges of this thermal complex. It will therefore be possible to reshape each of the six rooms. “In a context of consumer mediation, we can offer a 3D reconstruction. It will allow you to better understand the circuit of bathers, ”says Régis Bontrond.
Almost a month before the officially announced end of these excavations, no exhibition of the objects found is currently announced by the Grand Reims. The photos, reports, files and drawings listed will allow the writing of the report to be written on these excavations. The latter will be revealed within two years.
The Museum of Fine Arts will continue its moult. His site had to end at the end of 2026 for a reopening to the general public in 2027.
