Guided tour of the Plan of Rome




At the University of Caen, just a stone’s throw from the castle, the Plan of Rome is a unique model covering an area of approximately 70m², created by the Norman architect Paul Bigot between 1900 and 1940. Listed on the Inventory of Historic Monuments, it depicts ancient Rome in the 4th century AD under Emperor Constantine I and forms the starting point for a virtual reconstruction. This virtual model, enhanced by modern technology, complements the overall view provided by the plaster model by offering an interactive exploration of the city.
Self-guided visits are available to individuals only. As the model is located within research premises, silence must be observed at all times!
The model is freely viewable, without guided tours, during the MRSH’s opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 8 pm and Saturday from 8 am to 7 pm.
From Monday to Friday, from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm, the model is automatically lit. Outside these hours, a self-service switch allows you to light the model as required.
Annual closure: the last week of July and the first two weeks of August, as well as the Christmas holidays.
Guided tours of P. Bigot’s model and the virtual model are available for 1 hour or 1 hour 30 minutes on scheduled dates, by booking only. Dates and times are available on the Plan de Rome website.