Unique, the site of Olbia houses all the remnants of an ancient colony massaliote (founded by the Greeks of Massalia, Marseille ancestor). The discovery site in the early 20th century allowed the archaeologists to update the ancient past of Hyères, whose territory was populated by Olbiens the 4th century BC. This colony of soldiers, fishermen and farmers, were mainly designed to secure the maritime trade of the Mediterranean.
The remains found in the archaeological site of Olbia give to see the evolution of the colony for nearly 10 centuries. Small Fortress, the town of Olbia was built geometrically: square and divided into four equal quarters, she opened the port by a single door. The site still contains intact the foundations of the fortifications, sewer systems, habitats, shops, shrines and baths. The prosperity and activity of Olbia continued to be offered during the Romanization of the region following the capture of Marseille in 49 BC .. In the Middle Ages, an abbey was built on the ancient ruins: St. Peter's Abbey Almanarre busy from the early 13th century until the late 14th century.
The archaeological site of Olbia can freely visit, with a visit of support with map and explanations. The free tour takes the form of a walk among the ruins, dotted with points of interest. In the end, Olbia shop offers souvenirs and local products.
The site also is the subject of guided tours: an ideal way to get an accurate and fascinating analysis of ancient remains.
Olbia is particularly suitable for workshops and thematic visits. original business modes are proposed throughout the year, usually by appointment. We will focus eg the ancient wines with a tasting of wines produced by the Mas des Tourelles area specializes in the archeology of taste, and a reading of Latin authors texts on the subject. One can also enjoy a tour of all the Giens peninsula in the company of an archaeologist · To understand the landscape in the light of the history of the colony of Olbia. The team from the archaeological site of Olbia also offers excursions and tours of the Greek sanctuary of Aristeas, on the eastern tombolo of Giens.
Archaeological investigations are conducted regularly on the site. They are an opportunity to visit the site and interact with the search teams. Archaeological operations may have for specific research field sanctuaries on the site, or the medieval remains of the abbey.
Other thematic and original tours available at the Olbia include guided walks, musical siestas, or yoga courses.
Archaeological workshops are offered to children during the school holidays in spring and summer.
The site comes alive especially at national events such as National Archeology Days and the European Heritage Days.
Finally, it is possible to live magical moments during live shows and concerts hosted by the site.
Treasury assets far exceeding the only story of Hyères, the archaeological site of Olbia been important conservation initiatives and enhancement of its ancient and medieval remains: Stabilization ancient walls, protection against erosion remains located by the sea, but also facilities for a better visitor, securing paths, extension of access for people with reduced mobility and improving the remains approach for better visibility by the public.