Excavation plans in Grimault

Archaeological excavations are set to take place in the commune of Grimault from August to October 2025. These excavations, led by Inrap, aim to explore a site with layers of human occupation dating back to Prehistory through the Middle Ages.

Agrivoltaic project in the region

The excavations are being conducted in preparation for an agrivoltaic park project. This initiative is a collaboration with teams from Nice, who have studied the area for many years and have a long history of research in the region.

Site features and historical significance

The site, located south of the Yonne, includes a village-street that was occupied between the 6th and 11th centuries. It spans 20 hectares and is believed to have been a hub for agriculture, craftsmanship, and metal production.

Economic and trade activities

The local economy is thought to have been primarily based on livestock farming. However, it is still uncertain whether the artisanal activities at the site served only the local community or were also involved in trade with other regions.

Discovery of graves and Neanderthal remains

The excavation has uncovered 100 graves, suggesting the presence of a much larger burial site. This indicates significant human activity at the location. Additionally, the site has yielded an unprecedented discovery of Neanderthal remains, which is of great interest to researchers.

Concerns about looting

The excavation has also raised concerns about looting, which has been observed during the excavation phase. This highlights the need for careful management and protection of the site to preserve its historical and archaeological value.