About Arikamedu Archaeological Site
Arikamedu Archaeological Site is an ancient Indo-Roman trading settlement on the banks of the Ariyankuppam River near Ariyankuppam, about 4 km south of Puducherry city. Extensively excavated since the 1940s, it reveals brick structures, warehouses, bead-making workshops and imported Roman amphorae dating from the 2nd century BCE to 8th century CE. Protected by the Archaeological Survey of India, it is notable as one of South India's earliest known ports with evidence of extensive Mediterranean trade.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect an open-air archaeological site along the Ariyankuppam River with exposed brick walls, foundations of warehouses and residential structures, and remnants of bead-making workshops set among palm trees and riverine vegetation. The site is largely ruins with information boards explaining excavated areas. There is no large museum on site; excavated artefacts are displayed at the Puducherry Museum. The terrain is uneven with unpaved paths and open ground to explore on foot.
Key highlights
- 01
Ancient Indo-Roman port settlement dating from 2nd century BCE to 8th century CE
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Exposed brick structures including warehouses and walls from early historic period
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Evidence of bead-making industry and Roman amphorae and Arretine ware finds
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Location at the confluence of Ariyankuppam River and Bay of Bengal