Location: Alise-Sainte-Reine, France.

Architect: Bernard Tschumi Architects.

A new museum complex has been built in central France to commemorate the history of the battle between Julius Caesar and the Gauls in 52 B.C. The site consists of two separate but related structures, a museum and a visitors’ center, which are designed to blend in with their surroundings and provide a 360° panoramic view. The museum is built of stones and partially buried into the hill, while the visitors’ center is made of wood and has a garden roof to camouflage its presence. Both buildings recreate the battlements and earthworks of the historic battle and provide interpretation for the area. The project aims to give maximum presence to historical events while respecting the sensitive insertion of buildings into their natural environment. The buildings manage to defer to the battle site while fostering a sense of respect and awe through their muted presence. The project reflects the imperative of “modesty” demanded by archaeologists and the paradoxical challenge of being both visible and invisible.

Photo credit: bernard tschumi architects.