Narbonne's Roman past uncovered

Recent excavations in Narbonne, a city that was known as Narbo Martius during the Roman Empire, have revealed important remnants that show its role as a major center in ancient Gaul. These findings highlight the city’s significance as a key hub of trade and culture during Roman times.

City's strategic location

Narbonne, often called "the second Rome," was a crucial center for maritime trade between Rome and its colonies. Its location near the Mediterranean, connected by the La Robine canal, made it an essential link in the Roman trade network, unlike other nearby cities such as Arles and Nîmes.

Few surface traces remain

Unlike other Roman cities, Narbonne has left fewer visible marks on the surface. However, excavations over the past 20 years have uncovered significant structures, including a monumental capitol, an amphitheater, and underground warehouses that suggest the city's former grandeur.

Ancient necropolis found

In 2019, a large Roman necropolis was discovered at the city's edge, containing 1,500 tombs. This necropolis offers valuable insights into the daily lives, origins, customs, and activities of the people who lived in Narbonne during the Roman period.

More discoveries in residential and port areas

Further projects have uncovered remains of residential quarters, vineyard operations, and extensive port facilities at Port-la-Nautique. A luxurious imperial villa was also found, indicating the presence of high-status individuals in the city during Roman times.

Archaeologists study and document findings

The discoveries are being studied by archaeologists from Inrap, led by Valérie Bel, using historical analysis and image synthesis reconstructions. These efforts are part of a documentary supported by Histoire TV and the Occitanie Region, aiming to revive the history of this ancient city that shaped the Mediterranean world for over three centuries.