“Cemenelum”, a 360 degree virtual tour
The city of Nice is brimming with surprises and anecdotes that trace their origins back to the Roman era. With the remarkable “Cemenelum à 360°” experience, you have the opportunity to uncover a selection of these intriguing stories, all while using the power of modern technologies.
I had the opportunity to personally test the immersive “Cemenelum à 360°” experience with my colleagues. This unique and entertaining experience provides a fresh perspective on the ancient site of the Thermes du Nord. You can now explore this captivating virtual reality adventure at the Nice-Cimez Archaeology Museum.
The Concept and how it works
This extraordinary demonstration seamlessly merges archaeology and state-of-the-art technologies, presenting a breathtaking reconstruction of the Cemenelum baths site from the Roman era. A collaboration between the Nice Côte d’Azur Archaeology Department and the IMICA company brought this remarkable experience to life.
The operation is straightforward and precise, with an easily comprehensible principle. By simply wearing the virtual reality headset, you are instantly transported back in time to the Thermes du Nord as they stood 2000 years ago! Exploring this ancient site is as simple as following the white round markers, which guide you to various points of interest along the way.
At each location, we are presented with the unique opportunity to witness a reconstruction of the site as it appeared in the past, juxtaposed with its present-day counterpart. As an added bonus, we are provided with brief explanations and captivating anecdotes pertaining to each site, further enriching the immersive experience.
My experience
As someone with an enduring passion for history, I was eagerly anticipating the opportunity to partake in this activity.
Upon our arrival at the museum in the early afternoon, we were warmly greeted by Victoria, an intern who kindly escorted us to the designated activity area, ensuring a tranquil environment away from other visitors.
Victoria proceeded to provide us with a detailed explanation of how the activity operates and what we could expect throughout the experience.
Finally, it was time for me to embark on this captivating journey. I eagerly donned the virtual reality helmet and set off on my exploration. The city of Nice unfolded before me in a breathtaking spectacle, offering a 360° aerial view that surpassed any previous encounter. With every turn, I took a moment to marvel at the grandeur of the city, beholding sights I had never before witnessed.
I swiftly locate the renowned points of interest that were described to me, and I eagerly begin clicking on one of them. This is where my immersive journey truly commences. I navigate through various spaces, from the swimming pool to the frigidarium, passing through the tepidarium and laconicum. Each location reveals its unique aspects and vibrant colors. Engrossed in the experience, I spend approximately 10 minutes at each site, delving into its history while attentively listening to the accompanying explanations. Additionally, I have the freedom to revisit places I’ve already explored.
Within each room, I have the ability to turn and take in the entire space, gazing upwards to admire the intricately designed ceilings. Through concise yet detailed explanations, I unravel the historical significance and purpose of each room. Moreover, I am provided with the opportunity to witness its present-day appearance, making the comparison all the more engrossing. The reconstruction is remarkably lifelike, and the explanations prove to be truly captivating.
As my adventure draws to a close upon visiting all the points of interest, I pass on my seat and the virtual reality helmet to my colleague, allowing them to embark on their own discovery of this extraordinary place.
A little extra
Upon concluding our virtual visit, we were presented with the opportunity to embark on a guided tour of the very site we had just explored. Naturally, we eagerly accepted the invitation. Making our way to the physical location, which is under the museum’s ownership, we were thrilled to rediscover the site once again. Our guide, brimming with passion, shared her extensive knowledge and regaled us with fascinating anecdotes about the place. The guided tour proved to be an enriching experience, offering us deeper insights into the site’s historical significance. To our delight, we even had the privilege of venturing into the heart of the Thermes du Nord, surrounded by the remnants of this ancient structure, allowing us to appreciate them up close and personal.
As a passionate history enthusiast with limited knowledge of this particular era, I thoroughly enjoyed this experience, as it provided me with a unique and enjoyable opportunity to delve deeper into the world of the Thermes.
Not only is this experience remarkably affordable, but it is also easily accessible to individuals of all backgrounds and interests. In my opinion, it complements a more traditional museum visit, whether guided or self-guided, exceptionally well.
In conclusion, if, like me, you are not originally from Nice or if you have a fervent interest in history, I strongly recommend undertaking this experience. Follow it up with a guided tour to uncover or revisit a portion of the museum and immerse yourself in the captivating history of the magnificent city of Nice!
Practical Information
Place : Musée d’Archéologie de Nice-Cimez
Age : from 13 years old
Number of participants: from 1 to 3
Price: 2.55 euros per person
Times: by appointment, every Wednesday (except the first of the month and outside school vacations)
Reservation : by phone 04-93-81-59-57 or by email romain.lavalle@ville-nice.fr
Duration of the activity: about 10 minutes per person
