Archaeologists working with Inrap, a French public institution responsible for archaeological research, have uncovered an important Gallic settlement in Allonnes, dating back to the 2nd to 1st century BCE. The discovery was made as part of a housing development project at a site known as Le Tertre, which is part of a larger development called Les Lisières. The site includes the remains of a major Gallic settlement and its associated sanctuary, a rare find at the scale of Celtic Europe. This discovery reveals a history stretching over 2,300 years, offering new insights into the region's ancient past.
The excavations, which took place between 2017 and 2019, have provided evidence of a significant Gallic presence in the area long before the Roman conquest of Gaul. The sanctuary, in particular, is considered an exceptional example of religious practices among the Celts, as such structures are not commonly found in this region. The findings suggest that Allonnes was an important center of activity during the Iron Age, possibly serving as a religious or administrative hub.
Previous archaeological work in Allonnes, dating back to the 19th and 20th centuries, had already indicated that the village had medieval origins. However, these new discoveries show that the area was inhabited much earlier, during the Gallic and Roman periods. This adds a new layer to the understanding of the region’s history, showing that Allonnes has been continuously occupied for over two millennia.
The significance of this site lies not only in its age but also in its preservation. The remains of the Gallic settlement and sanctuary offer valuable information about the daily lives, religious practices, and social structures of the people who lived there. As further research and analysis continue, archaeologists hope to uncover more details about this ancient community and its connection to the broader Celtic world.
Archaeological Excavation Reveals Ancient Gallic Settlement in Allonnes
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