Vici in Roman Gaul 9781841712277, 9781407352800

Table of contents :
Front Cover
Title Page
Copyright
Dedication
Introduction
Acknowledgements
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 1. The vici; selection, definition, self-awareness, classification
Chapter 2. Location and distribution of vici
Chapter 3. Settlement and building layout
Chapter 4. The function of the vici
Chapter 5. The chronology of the vici
Chapter 6. The society of the vici
Conclusions
Gazetteer
Bibliography
Alphabetical Index of Sites

Citation preview

BAR S933 2001

Vici in Roman Gaul

RORISON

Monica Rorison

VICI IN ROMAN GAUL

B A R

BAR International Series 933 2001

Vici in Roman Gaul Monica Rorison

BAR International Series 933 2001

Published in 2016 by BAR Publishing, Oxford BAR International Series 933 Vici in Roman Gaul © M Rorison and the Publisher 2001 The author's moral rights under the 1988 UK Copyright, Designs and Patents Act are hereby expressly asserted. All rights reserved. No part of this work may be copied, reproduced, stored, sold, distributed, scanned, saved in any form of digital format or transmitted in any form digitally, without the written permission of the Publisher.

ISBN 9781841712277 paperback ISBN 9781407352800 e-format DOI https://doi.org/10.30861/9781841712277 A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library BAR Publishing is the trading name of British Archaeological Reports (Oxford) Ltd. British Archaeological Reports was first incorporated in 1974 to publish the BAR Series, International and British. In 1992 Hadrian Books Ltd became part of the BAR group. This volume was originally published by Archaeopress in conjunction with British Archaeological Reports (Oxford) Ltd / Hadrian Books Ltd, the Series principal publisher, in 2001. This present volume is published by BAR Publishing, 2016.

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Introduction The subject of this work is the 'vici' of Gaul, or more precisely of the Three Gauls; Aquitania, Lugdunensis and Belgica. It is the publication of my thesis for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy at the Department of Archaeology and Prehistory of the University of Sheffield, March 1996. How the vici were selected is described in the first chapter (section 1.1). The time span covered is approximately from the conquest culminating in the victory of Caesar at Alesia in 52 BC, to the loss of Roman control at the beginning of the fifth century. The first aim (in 1996) was to catalogue the vici, as there was no existing list, except for the area of Franche-Comte where Mangin had made a systematic survey of the agglomerations secondaires (Mangin et al. 1986). The second aim was to provide an overview of the origins and development, structural complexity and character, and the functions of these settlements. The main sources for my search (Rorison M. 1996), were the archaeological reports of the major French journal Gallia from 1964 onwards and Grenier's Manuel d'Archeologie (1931-1960, 4 vols.). After three years it transpired that it would be too ambitious to include all of the Three Gauls, because of the large number of sites. It was decided that ten areas, preferably taking in some of the northwest, south-west, centre and east of Gaul would have to suffice. At the same time a new generation of publications of Carte Archeologique de la Gaule was appearing, adding valuable information where there had been little or none before. Problem areas with little available information remain, as for instance the departement of Sarthe, which so far is not covered by a publication of Carte Archeologique de la Gaule. During the summers of these years of study it was possible to visit many vici sites and appreciate their remains and their topographical and environmental characteristics at first hand (Burgundy: one week tour in 1986; Aquitaine and Poitou-Charentes: three week tour in 1989; Brittany and Bordeaux: two week tour in 1990; Limousin and Auvergne: two week tour in 1992; Loire valley and central France: two weeks in 1993). The publication of the proceedings of the conference on urbanisation in the south-west of Gaul was very helpful, although it focused mainly on civitas-capitals (Aquitania, supplement 6, 1990, eds. Maurin, L. et al). The conference at Bitche in 1992 gave me an opportunity to take part in dicussions on the vici of Gallia Belgica and the Germanies (Germania inferior and superior). It impressed upon me forcibly that the vici were important and that Bliesbruck in particular was a prime source of information. The Atlas, prepared for the conference, produced valuable information and extended my own collection of vici by adding many more (Atlas, Colloque Bliesbruck-Reinheim - Bitche, Oct.1992). In 1994 the proceedings of this conference were published in two volumes (eds. Petit, J.-P., Mangin, M. , Brunella, Ph.) Information culled from all these sources made possible the discussion which was tackled in the following sequence; definition and selection (chapter 1), location and distribution (chapter 2), settlement and building layout (chapter 3), function (chapter 4), chronology (chapter 5) and society (chapter 6).

11

Acknowledgements

First of all I wish to thank my former supervisors, Professor John Collis, who helped me with the initial thesis and Professor John Drinkwater who has continued to help and encourage me. Acknowledgements are also due to scholars abroad who helped me. I am particularly grateful to Dr. Patrick Galliou of the University of Brest and Professor Louis Maurin (Universite de Bordeaux III). Kind help was also received from Jean-Pierre Bost (Universite de Bordeaux III), Jean Michel Desbordes (Directeur des Antiquites Historiques du Limousin), Dr. Jean Krier (Staatsmuseum, Luxemburg) and Madame Sauget-Fizelier (Antiquites Historiques et Prehistoriques d' Auvergne) at Clermont-Ferrand. Dr. Barry Burnham of the University of Wales, Lampeter, kindly gave me advice on key characteristics of Roman small towns. My thanks are also due to him for encouragement with this work.

Abbreviations and Definitions c. m p.

circa metre page

ch. chapter km kilometre vol. volume

Abbreviations of ancient and modern works: Ant.It. Antonine Itinerary Peut.Tab. Peutinger Table BAR British Archaeological Reports, Oxford B.G. De Bello Gallico, Caesar CAG Carte Archeologique de la Gaule, Paris 1981CIL Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum, Berlin 1893Gazetteer, Part II of this work G ILTG Inscriptions Latines des Trois Gaules, Paris 1963 RIG Receuil des Inscriptions Gauloises, Gallia 1988

Definitions All dates before the Birth of Christ are marked BC. Dates after the Birth of Christ are only marked AD when there is a danger of confusion. Foreign words are in italics except place names. The word 'vicus' is used without italics throughout this work. The circumflex accent is not used, because it is no longer a legal requirement in France.

111

iv

Contents Chapter 1 The vici; selection, definition, self-awareness, classification

1

Chapter 2 Location and distribution ofvici

17

Chapter 3 Settlement and building layout

33

Chapter 4 The function of the vici

51

Chapter 5 The chronology of the vici

64

Chapter 6 The society of the vici

80

Conclusions

90

Gazetteer

95

98

Aquitaine Auvergne Bourgogne Bretagne Centre Franche-Comte Limousin Lorraine Pays-de-la-Loire Poitou-Charentes

111

123 145 159 180 196 206 229

237

Bibliography

257

Index

267

V

Vl

Chapter 1 The vici; selection, definition, self-awareness, classification

1.1 Selection and definition of areas and sites.

also included in the discussion of the location and distribution of the vici (ch. 2).

For the purpose of archaeological research, modem France is divided into twenty two administrative areas, the circonscriptions archeologiques (Fig. 1.1). Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon experienced an earlier conquest and different history from 'Northern Gaul' and have therefore been excluded from this study. Ten areas were chosen to represent a sample of 'Northern Gaul': Aquitaine, Auvergne, Bourgogne, Bretagne, Centre, Franche-Comte, Limousin, Lorraine, Pays-de-la-Loire and Poitou-Charentes (Fig. 1.1). In order to avoid confusion the French name of an administrative area is used in preference to the English, e.g. Bourgogne - not Burgundy, Bretagne - not Brittany.

1.2 The term 'vicus', its definition and use, the ancient sources and contemporary use of the term. Caesar used the term vici for the settlements of the Helvetii which were in rank and magnitude below oppida, usually translated as 'towns' and on the other hand above aedificia, usually translated as 'private dwellings', or 'farmsteads' (B.G. I, 5, 24). There is other literary evidence for the use of the term (e.g. Varro, Festus and Isidore of Seville). Varro, a contemporary of Caesar, wrote that a vicus was a group of houses, which depended on a street for communication (Varro LL, V, 160 and Curchin 1985:328-9). Festus, writing during the late second century, when the Empire had developed and expanded considerably, gave three definitions for the word 'vicus': 1) a rural settlement which acted as a market place and had annually elected magistrates, 2) part or suburb of a town with its distinct topography and name, 3) a block of flats whose tenants however did not call themselves vicani (Festus L, 502-8 and Curchin 1985:328). Isidore of Seville, writing in the early seventh century, seems largely to agree with what Festus says about the vici. However, he does not mention the third option, a block of flats. It has been suggested that this particular interpretation does not need serious consideration (Curchin 1985:328). Isidore of Seville aligns vici with pagi and castelli, stressing their subordination to civitas-capitals (Isidore, Etym. XV, 2, 1112). The literary sources appear to tell us that people living in a vicus called themselves vicani and that these vici may have had a local administration, though they were always subordinate to their civitas-capital. Wightman insisted in fact that a major criterion for a vicus was that it should yield evidnce of some degree of local autonomy (Wightman 1976:59-64).

The aim of this book is to make available information about the settlements (vici), which were in status, magnitude and importance less than the official cities at one end of the spectrum and more than the farms or villas at the other. Such settlements are called by French scholars agglomerations secondaires, which can be translated as 'secondary grouped setlements'. They were secondary to the primary urban sites, that is the civitas-capitals which might have had the status of municipium or civitas, and the coloniae like LUGDUNUM, the federal capital of the 'Three Gauls' at Lyon. Details concerning a great variety of settlements are presented in the Gazetteer (see pp 000000). Sites which lacked archaeological documentation (for instance stations only known from the ancient itineraries), have been excluded. At the upper end of the scale were places which in many respects resembled capitals. The outstanding example of such a case is ALESIA, Alise-Ste.-Reine (Cote-d'Or), in Burgundy (G 3.1). Other places, either because of their strategic position, or because of historical developments, became capitals during the Late Empire. St.-Malo (site: Alet), in Bretagne is a good example (G 4.15). It replaced Corseul, the earlier capital of the Coriosolites probably from the second part of the third century onward. It has been included as a vicus, because of its importance as a port preceding its role as civitas-capital. In all 192 sites are described at some length in the Gazetteer. At the other end of the range is a great number of places which are difficult to define. Settlements with very poor archaeological documentation have been gathered in an appendix to each research area as 'further possible sites'. Information on these was so poor that it would not have been fruitful to include them for an analysis in the tables of characteristics of the vici. However, they are marked on the distribution maps and

Unfortunately only a very small number of vici have produced inscriptions mentioning an administrative body or magistrates. There are only three examples, two from Burgundy and one from Lorraine. At Alise-Ste.-Reine inscriptions refer to a decree of an ordo, a council of magistrates and a priest (CIL XIII, 2877; cf Benard and Mangin 1992:87). At Dijon a second-century inscription mentions decuriones (CIL XIII, 2, 5488). At St.-Amandsur-Omain in Lorraine an undated inscription refers to a council of the pagus of NASIUM and to the Augusta/es, priests of the imperial cult (CIL XIII, 4636). These few inscriptions are not sufficient evidence of an administrative function of the vici in general. The problem of an administrative function of the vici is discussed in chapter 4.

1

Monica Rorison

Fig. 1.1 Administrative areas for archaeology in France (circonscriptions archeologique). The ten areas of this study are shaded.

1.3 Evidence of self-awareness, inscriptions referring to the vicus or the vicani.

The inscription found at Cocheren (Moselle), is a dedication to the Emperor Tiberius mentioning the vicus and the dedicants possibly as the 'merchants' of the vicus (CIL XIII, 4481). The archaeological evidence at Cocheren (site: Le Herapel), suggests that it was a small vicus on the Roman road from Metz, the civitas-capital of the Mediomatrici, via Saarbrucken to the Rhine. There is evidence of Late Empire fortifications, although it is not a road station known from the itineraries and its Latin name is unknown (G 8.4). At Marsal (Moselle), a dedication to the Emperor Claudius mentions the vicani of MAROSALLUM (CIL XIII, 4565). This was a small vicus situated at the river crossing of the Seille by the Roman

Inscriptions which mention a vicus and vicani are more common, though it has to be borne in mind that they only supply evidence of self awareness on the part of the inhabitants and the dedicants, i.e. they are not evidence for an externally acknowledged status. In the Gazetteer's 192 sites, only eleven inscriptions from nine locations refer to a vicus, or vicani, or both. The area of Lorraine has produced three inscriptions mentioning a vicus or vicani. Two originate from the region of the Moselle and one from the Vosges.

2

Vici in Roman Gaul

road from Metz to Strasbourg. It is not known from the itineraries, but seems to have been involved in salt production, a valuable commodity (G 8.13). At Soulosse (Vosges), a road station of the Ant.It., two inscriptions are of interest. One, dated to the first century, is a dedication to Jupiter, mentioning the vicani of Solimariaca (CIL XIII, 4681). The other, dated to AD 232, is a dedication to the 'genius' of the pagus of DERVETUM. The last line mentions the vicus SOLICIA (CIL XIII, 4679). The two vicus names have caused some confusion. Grenier postulated that the vicus had two names, referring to two different parts of the settlement (Grenier 1934:696-702). Thus the SOLIMARIACA of the itineraries refer to the place on the hill, the older part of the vicus. SOLICIA, on the other hand, was the more recent part by the river, at the foot of the hill.

the Peut.Tab. (G 2.7). At Vendoeuvres-en-Brenne (Cher), in the administrative area of Centre, a religious dedication mentions the vicani, who as in the inscription from Neris, are offered certain public buildings by a donor who is also a priest and duumvir (CIL XIII, 11151). These buildings include a basilica, offices (diribitoria), and porticos to lead from the forum to the baths. Unfortunately this great sanctuary is lost to us (G 5.32). At Vendeuvre-du-Poitou (Vienne ), a civic dedication also 'offers the vicani' public buildings (Gallia 31, 1973:392). This site in PoitouCharentes has been comparatively recently excavated. It proved to be the location of a great sanctuary with theatre. The monumental centre of public buildings around a forum of considerable size has been compared with the urban fora of civitas-capitals. In contrast with the monumental core, the settlement discovered so far is small and dispersed (G 10.22).

In Bourgogne two references have been found, one in the region of Cote d'Or, the other one in Nievre. At Vertault (Cote d'Or) an undated inscription mentions the vicani of VERTILLUM (CIL XIII, 2, 5661). Vertault was a major settlement, laid out with a street grid and central core of public buildings, including two temples, possibly a basilica and a bath complex (G 3.25). At Mesves-sur-Loire (Nievre ), a religious dedication to the divinity of a spring, dated to the first century, mentions the vicani of MASA VA, (CIL XIII, 2895). This was a road station known from the itineraries on the road from Nevers to Orleans on the right bank of the Loire. Very little is known of its interior organisation (G 3.17). The settlement was probably modest and its function was to serve road and river transport.

In conclusion it appears that in the sample area inscriptions mentioning a vicus, or vicani have been found at: 1) major settlements which were probably towns, like Neris and Vertault; 2) great sanctuaries and water sanctuaries, like Vendoeuvres-en-Brenne (Cher), Vendeuvre-du-Poitou (Vienne) and Villards d'Heria (Jura); 3) modest settlements on major Roman roads, like Cocheren (site: Le Herapel) and Marsal (both: Moselle), Soulosse (Vosges) and Mesves-sur-Loire (Nievre). The vici at Cocheren and Marsal are not known as road stations from the itineraries. It is possible to deduce from these findings that some centres of population secondary to the civitas-capitals were called vicus and their inhabitants called themselves vicani. One may even suggest that there is a high likelyhood that most of these centres called themselves vici. In this study the term vicus is therefore used generally to denote 'secondary grouped settlements', whether or not there is contemporary evidence for the application of the term to a particular site.

In Franche-Comte one inscnpt10n is known ongmating from Villards d'Heria (Jura). It is a dedication to Mars and Bellona by the inhabitants of the vicus (CIL XIII, 2, 5352). Villards d'Heria was a water sanctuary situated by a lake and in the vicinity of subterranean water courses. Its buildings were beautifully designed, partially on arches across the waters and generously laid out with terraces and a fountain (G 6.18).

1.4 Classification ofvici (see Tables 1-10). The 192 vici referred to above clearly show significant variation in their organisation, building types and functions. They are described in the Gazetteer, but for ease of comparison I also present them in Tables 1-10, by area and ranked as "towns", "settlements which were not towns" and "intermediate sites". The criteria used in the tables are adapted from those used by Burnham and Wacher for the subdivision of small towns in Roman Britain (Burnham and Wacher 1990:(325)). In the absence of a town charter or the evidence of juridical status, it is not possible to rank a Roman settlement by one criterion. Therefore five criteria have been chosen (A-E), each consisting of one or more points. These are shown in the first colunm on the left of the tables. Category A is concerned with the interior organisation or street plan of a settlement. The presence of a regular street grid is usually a sign of urban development.

In Auvergne two religious dedications mentioning the vicani ofNERIOMAGUS were found at Neris near the hot springs and Roman baths. One of them, dated to the second century, is very fragmented (CIL XIII, 1374). The other inscription, also dated to the second century, is well preserved (CIL XIII, 1376, 1377). According to it, the donor, a priest of the imperial cult and a magistrate (duumvir), together with two other noblemen, "offers for the benefit of the vicani ofNERIOMAGUS and the whole civitas of the Bituriges Cubi, shops and porticos for the vicinity of the baths" (Dumasy 1990:459). Neris was probably a flourishing town centred on the hot springs and the busy road from Clermont to Bourges. A theatre and other public buildings, as well as workshop zones have been found and it is known as a road station and spa from

3

Monica Rorison

In category B the focus, or central core of a settlement is considered. This might be a forum, or simply a public square. Category C is concerned with the diversity and range of building types. This category has nine subdivisions, as indicated. In category D the range of economic activity is considered. Pottery and metalwork are the best known kinds of industry in Roman Gaul, because of the ease of detection in the archaeological record, but other industries were important and deserve recogmt10n. These included for instance, mining and quarrying, food processing, salt production, stone and wood working and textile manufacture. Commerce is often difficult to define, but any kind of evidence for trade like harbour installations and images of shops and vehicles for transport on funerary reliefs, have been used in conjunction with the observations contained in archaeological reports. In category E, evidence of specialised and official functions, as well as culture is considered. "Status", refers to a documented status of the settlement, either from epigraphic or literary sources. A question mark by status indicates that our evidence is incomplete. For instance Reze was known to Ptolemy as a port of the Pictavi, but he does not mention that it had any recognisable status (Ptol. II, 7, 6; G 9 .11). Its name also occurs on a Merovingian coin, and in medieval literature as a vicus, but by then the meaning of 'vicus' had again undergone a profound change.

A useful confirmation of the validity of my ranking objective may be found in the high number ofvici ranking as towns in the table for Bourgogne ( 9 towns, table 3). Leday already referred to the great number of large and important vici in Burgundy, which were not comparable to the much more humble ones he was researching in the Berry (Leday 1980: 277). Mackendrick in his contribution to the regional analysis of Burgundy has also referred to the advanced urbanisation of that region in particular and eastern Gaul in general (Mackendrick 1987: 439-41). By contrast the neighbouring administrative area of Bourgogne, namely Lorraine, has in our table 1 town and 15 intermediate sites, while only 10 sites form the group of settlements which were clearly not towns (table 8). The tables also show that an exceptionally well surveyed site like Bliesbruck seems to be ranked correctly as an intermediate site in the table for Lorraine (table 8 and G 8.3). Thus in the tables well known sites are probably correctly grouped in the ranking order of settlements. However, poorly known sites may not be grouped correctly. The danger of this happening is not very great in eastern Gaul (e.g. Bourgogne, Franche-Comte, Lorraine), where the vici are well researched, but is more likely in the central and western regions of Gaul. The rarity or even absence of systematic surveys of the vici in greater Aquitaine has recently been underlined by Tassaux at the Bliesbruck Conference (Tassaux 1992:114, Pre-Actes). As an example of the problems that occur when an attempt is made to order the vici according to magnitude or importance, it is helpful to check the table for Aquitaine (table 1).

Three categories of criteria (C, D, E), are thus assessed by a range of points . As far as C and E are concerned, I have decided arbitrarily that a count of 4 out of 9 points allows a settlement to qualify as having demonstrated range and diversity of building types, or specialised and official functions and culture. With regard to D a count of 2 out of 4 points allows a settlement to qualify as showing a range of economic activity.

Here Villeneuve-sur-Lot ranks as the only town in Aquitaine and there is indeed considerable evidence for its position as a town (G 1.13). Then follow five intermediate sites (Sanguinet, St-Jean-le-Vieux, Brion, Aiguillon, Biganos). Only St-Jean-le-Vieux and Brion are fairly well researched. St-Jean-le-Vieux, the IMUS PYRENAEUS of the itineraries, was a station on a pass in the foothills of the Pyrenees. It probably originated from the site of a military camp which was replaced by the vicus as early as the end of the first century BC. The settlement had spread beyond the boundaries of the camp by the second century and probably functioned as a road station (G 1.11). Its position as an intermediate site in the chart seems reasonable. Brion (site: St-Germain d'Esteuil) was a great sanctuary with theatre and settlement and seems also well placed as an intermediate site (G 1.5). Sanguinet is not very well known and now partially submerged under a lake. However, there is evidence for its having had a temple and settlement. It had diverse functions as a road station combined with river or sea going traffic on the bay of Arcachon and there was evidence for the manufacture of pitch (G 1.10). Its position as an intermediate site seems reasonable. Aiguillon has produced evidence for an early, prosperous vicus by the confluence of Lot and Garonne. The Gallo-Roman street plan has been traced in the modem town and the settlement seems to have been dense in the

The vici, which qualified in at least 4 categories, were probably small towns. Sites which qualified in one or no categories were clearly not towns. Between these two types of settlements were intermediate sites. In the tables the settlements of each administrative area are not shown in alphabetical order, but according to their proposed ranking order from left to right in the charts. One criterion for Roman towns which has not been included in the tables is fortification. There is evidence of defences inside some vici, usually called burgus, or castrum in archaeological reports or historical documents and also rarely for exterior fortifications. However, the evidence of such fortifications is limited to eastern Gaul, to a few places in the administrative area of Centre and the coasts of Brittany and Aquitaine. In addition most of the fortifications date from the Late Empire only. Evidently fortifications appeared where there was a danger of barbarian attack. As large areas of Gaul were not so threatened, it seemed prudent not to include fortifications as a general criterion.

4

Vici in Roman Gaul

centre of the vicus with the buildings aligned to a regular street grid (G 1.1). Aiguillon was probably situated on or at least near an important Roman road, although it is unknown from the itineraries. The foundations of walls and houses have been discovered, as well as warehouses (horrea). Its position as an intermediate site in the chart seems reasonable. Biganos is not well known, but documented as a possible road station of the Ant.It. and the one time capital of the minor Gallic civitas of the Boii, although this is not established beyond doubt (Moreau 1983 :43). In the case of Biganos there is simply too little information to judge if it is fairly ranked as an intermediate site (G 1.3). The last group contains seven settlements which were not towns according to the criteria of the chart. Blaye, Coutras and Vayres were road stations known from the itineraries (G 1.4, G 1.6, G 1.12). Blaye is in addition documented as a garrisoned castrum (Moreau 1983:42). However, the archaeological record for all three sites is very poor and it is at this stage of our knowledge impossible to decide if they are ranked correctly in this group of places which were certainly not towns. Bayonne has also very little archaeological evidence as a settlement, but is documented as a garrisoned castrum like Blaye and there is some evidence of the Late Empire fortifications (G 1.2). It might have been higher in rank than the charts show. Le Mas d' Agenais is a site which is difficult to judge. It is known as the USSUBIUM, or VESUBIUM of

the itineraries. The Latin name is confirmed by an inscription discovered re-used in the parish church and now believed to be genuine (CIL XIII, 919). Unfortunately only the cemetery of the vicus is known, but this was a very extensive one and it was in use for the first 300 years of our era. It is likely that future discoveries will place this vicus into a higher ranked group of settlements (G 1.8). Mezin was a specialised religious site of which only three temples are known (G 1.9). Isle-St-Georges was probably a small vicus and has been correctly ranked in the last category of settlements which were not towns (G 1.7). In conclusion the tables shall be seen as only a first attempt at a subdivision of the vici into groups of urban, intermediate and non urban sites. Well researched towns, intermediate and 'not town' settlements will probably fall into their correct divisions. On the other hand it should be understood that sites which are poorly known cannot be conclusively graded. However there is sufficient confirmatory evidence to suggest that the tables may be regarded as a useful working tool. They are followed by a summary list of the vici in order ofrank. Major specialised religious sites and spas are marked with an asterisk and will be discussed in ch. 4 , section 4.5. Having defined an outline of the selection of the vici, I will deal with their location and and distribution in the next chapter.

5

Monica Rorison

c

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Street Grid

B

Forum Public S uare

C

Tern le Theatre Baths Basilica Other Public Build. Zones Porticos Sho s / W orksho s A ueduct

D

Potte Metal Work Other Indus Commerce

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are known (plan: Galliou 1983:203). There was also evidence for a villa and a street. Gallo-Roman occupation debris stretched for 800m along the right bank of the river near the modem village. This was a frontier site of the Veneti and Namnetes. Dating is not possible, but there was some evidence to conclude, that the settlement experienced a peak during the second century. This was a road station on a major Roman route. References: Galliou 1983:45, 60, 84, 201; Grenier 1960:795;

Rieux (Morbihan)

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 47 36 N 2 06 W Latin name: DURETIE Territory: V eneti or N amnetes Summary: The site was located at the river crossing of the Vilaine by a major Roman road. It is known from the Peut.Tab. as a road station on the route from Angers to Vannes (Moreau 1972:329; 1983:210). A sanctuary with temples, one of them of the fanum type with ambulatory, 152

Vici in Roman Gaul

G4.13

Saint-Brandan (Cotes-du-Nord)

References: Galliou 1983:46, 60, 84, 87, 138-9, 257;

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 23 N 2 52 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii or Coriosolites

G4.15

Saint-Malo (Ille-et-Vilaine) (site: Alet) Circ.: Bretagne Latin name: ALETUM Coords.: 48 39 N 2 01 W Territory: Coriosolites

Summary: The site was located on a Roman road from St.Brieuc to Carhaix, probably a section of a road from St.Malo (site: Alet). It was probably a frontier site of the Osismii and the Coriosolites. There was evidence for an area with extensive foundations of buildings, pottery kilns and funerary ditches. The most unusual find was a monumental granite statue of the divinity Sucellus (the hammer god). It has remained the only representation of that Gallic divinity in Brittany (site: Rillan). Dating of occupation is not possible, but the buildings dated from the first century. Finds included samian ware, clay statuettes and coins. The function of the settlement is not fully understood. It might have been a small rural centre, combining commercial and workshop activity with a religious function.

Summary: The site is located on a rocky promontory at the mouth of the estuary of the river Rance. ALETUM was probably a pagus capital and is known as the Late Empire capital of the civitas of the Coriosolites. A garrison was stationed here during the fourth century (Moreau 1972:305; 1983:7). A Late La Tene settlement is known to have continued into the Gallo-Roman period, but was destroyed during the first half of the first century. The subsequent settlement was focused on a port and water supply station (site: Bastion Solidor). This site was probably known as REGINCA (CAG 35, 1990:28). An aqueduct and a water pump was used to supply the vicus and shipping with fresh water and these finds serve as evidence of the GalloRoman settlement and port activity. Late in the third century, a rampart was constructed surrounding the rocky promontory of Alet and inside this 14ha site the core of the vicus was laid out, aligned to a street grid. At this time the vicus probably became the civitas- capital in place of Corseul. During the second half of the fourth century a public building, the principia building, was erected at the heart of the settlement and further fortifications were built to protect the 'Bastion Solidor'. Burials have been found, probably evidence of cemeteries. During the fifth or sixth century a bishopric was founded and the cathedral of StPierre was built. Occupation lasted into the Middle Ages. This was a sea port and a centre of distribution. During the Late Empire it had an administrative and military function.

References: Gallia 33, 1975:366-7; 35, 1977:353; Galliou 1983:84, 144, 192;

G4.14

Saint-Brieuc (Cotes-du-Nord)

Circ.: Bretagne Coords: 48 31 N 2 47 W Latin name: DURETIE Territory: Coriosolites Summary: The site was located at the crossing of the Gouet and Gouedic rivers by a Roman road from Corseul to Kerilien and the Atlantic ports of Finistere. Another road led from here to Carhaix. This was a first fording site. It was situated on a plateau, which at its ultimate point forms the promontory of Cesson in the cleft of the two rivers. There was some evidence for fortifications of the Late Empire on the promontory of Cesson, together with coin finds of the Late Empire. Little is known of the settlement. The country surrounding the Bay of St.-Brieuc was densely settled during the Roman period. There is evidence for farming and mining of lead and the associated precious metal, silver. The promontory of Cesson was barred by a rampart during the Late La Tene period and again fortified during the Late Empire. Occupation, apart from these two periods, is not well documented. This was probably an estuary port with a commercial function on a Roman road and at an important river crossing. It had a military function during the Late Empire.

Public buildings: The fortifications were built around 270280, following the contours of the peninsula (plans, CAG 35, 1990:234-5). There was a fortified annexe on the rock plateau of the Bastion Solidor, which probably housed a garrison under the command of their prefect (praefectus militum martensium) during the late fourth century (Not.Dign. ed. Boecking, Bonn, 1839-53:106-7). A remarkably well preserved water pump made use of spring water, stored in reservoirs, to supply shipping moored in the Rance estuary (site: Bastion Solidor). The timber machinery of the excavated pump is unique in the Roman Empire. It was dated to an origin around AD 90. A first century aqueduct was also discovered. A military principia building, dated to 365-375, was discovered facing a paved street at the core of the vicus. It probably replaced a residential quarter (rooms with hypocaust, traces of walls with painted plaster). Settlement: The early settlement consisted of timber structures and flourished until the Tiberian period. There is little evidence of the settlement during the High Empire,

Settlement: Evidence of the settlement is very slight, but numerous coins have been found in various parts of the modem town, in particular coins of the Late Empire, as well as a bronze statuette of Osiris.

153

Monica Rorison

excepting the water pump and aqueduct already mentioned and small finds and coins. The third century settlement seemed to have been prosperous (finds of architectural ornament, marble, sculpture, painted plaster and a hypocaust). There was evidence for workshop activity during the Early and Late Empire (iron, bronze and glass and possibly pottery workshops). Several quems for grinding com were evidence of the connection of the vicus with the agricultural production of the countryside surrounding the vicus. Pottery as evidence of land and sea trade was abundant, including imported pottery from Britain, namely black burnished ware (CAG 35, 1990:2434). More than 800 Roman coins were found at the site of Alet, of these a majority dated from around 270-420. Another 202 coins were found during the campaign 1980/1 at the Bastion Solidor. Many of these were unfortunately not identifiable, being badly corroded by the action of sea water. References: Gallia 29, 1971:235-7; 31, 1973:355-361; 33, 1975:341-3; 35, 1977:343-4; 37, 1979:374-5; 39, 1981:306-7; 41, 1983:276; CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:28, 229-248; Galliou 1983;

•

•

0

G4.16

I

--===---==....

Tadeo (Cotes-du-Nord)

Fig. 21a Taden, plan of the settlement (after Languet 1985: 77, 79)

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 29 N 2 01 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Coriosolites

Key to relevant symbols:

Summary: The site was located on the left bank of the river Rance. The Rance was probably tidal from St.-Malo (site: Alet) and navigable for sea going craft up to Taden. A Roman road from Corseul to St.-Malo crossed the river here via a ford and branched out towards Avranches. Ten buildings, including two small temples have been discovered near the riverbank and in the vicinity of the Roman roads. The vicus covered an area of about 50ha, but settlement was not dense (Fig. 21). It was possibly preceded by a pre-Roman settlement defended by a ditch on a barred spur on the right river bank. Occupation of the vicus lasted from the first to the fourth century. This was a river port, probably serving traffic and transport at a river/road relay station.

'-=barred spur (pre-Roman) B - C = ancient route associated with barred spur A - D - H = road Corseul - Avranches A - D - F = road Corseul - St. Malo

The plan shows location of the vicus by the river Rance, including the Roman roads.

Public buildings: One of the two temples faced the road by the ford (site: Asile de Pecheurs). It was a rectangular building with a facade of eight columns set in pairs. The other temple, which had a round central cella, faced the river (Nos. 2 and 4, Fig.21). References: Gallia 35, 1977:353; 37, 1979:379; Galliou, 1983:84. Langouet 1985:73-82.

154

Vici in Roman Gaul

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The plan shows the buildings found during the archaeological survey. They include two temples: 2, 4, port installations (warehouses): 1, 3, 9.

04.17

G 4.18 Appendix of 'further possible sites'

Visseiche (Ille-et-Vilaine)

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 47 57 N 1 18 W Latin name: SIP IA Territory: Redones or Andecavi

Baguer-Morvan (Ille-et-Vilaine)

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 32 N 1 47 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Coriosolites

Summary: The site was located at the river crossing of the Seiche by the major Roman road from Angers to Rennes. It is known from the Peut. Tab. as a road station (Moreau 1972:361; 1983:275). Some foundations of Gallo-Roman buildings have been discovered under the modem cemetery and there were finds of building debris in the modem town. Dating of occupation is not yet possible. A Merovingian cemetery near the medieval presbytery serves as evidence for early medieval occupation. The function of the vicus was to serve traffic and transport at a river crossing of a major road.

Summary: The site was located on the Roman road from Corseul to Avranches. Foundations of buildings aligned to a street system covered an area of about 12ha on both sides of the major Roman road (site: Baguer-Pican). It has been identified with the FANO MARTIS of the Ant.It. (CAG 35, 1990:28). References: Gallia 33, 1976:333; Galliou 1983:84; CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:28, 90-91;

References: Gallia Informations, 1990:50-51; CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:125-6; Galliou 1983:49, 85;

155

Monica Rorison

Breteil (Ille-et-Vilaine)

statuettes and coins ranging from the reign of Augustus to Gordian III.

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 09 N 1 47 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Redones

References: Eveillard 1976:211-220 (inparticularp.215).

Landernau (Finistere) Summary: The site was located on the Roman road from Rennes to Carhaix, where the river Meu was crossed. The foundations of a large building complex, covering a surface area of 9ha, have been found here associated with tiles, bricks, building stones and domestic pottery.

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 27 N 4 15 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii Summary: The site was located on a minor Roman road from Kerilien to Quimper, where the river Elom was crossed. As the river was navigable, there might have been a small harbour situated here. Another road led from Carhaix to Landemau. One tile kiln has been discovered.

References: CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990: 148;

Chartres-de-Bretagne (Ille-et-Vilaine) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 03 N 1 42 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Redones

References: Galliou 1983:48, 60, 84, 162, 174;

Lannion (Cotes-du-Nord) Summary: The site was located near a Roman road from Rennes to Nantes. Gallo-Roman remains have been found in the modem town. References: CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:269;

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 44 N 3 28 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii Summary: The site was located at the river crossing of the Legner. A river port might have existed here as the Legner is navigable up to Lannion. A minor Roman road connected the possible vicus to Carhaix, the civitascapital.

Feins (Ille-et-Vilaine) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 20 N 1 38 W Latin name: ADFINES (?) Territory: Redones or Coriosolites

References: Galliou 1983; Summary: The site was located on a Roman road from Rennes to Coutances. It was probably a frontier site of the Redones and Coriosolites. Evidence of a tilery and workshop activity, possibly a forge, has been found. The identification with the ADFINES of the Ant.It. is now doubtful (CAG 35, 1990:28).

Merdrignac (Cotes-du-Nord) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 12 N 2 25 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Coriosolites

References: CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:28, 220-1; Galliou, 1983:40; Moreau 1972:332 (No.5 of FINES).

Summary: The site was located on the major Roman road from Rennes to Carhaix, at a crossroads. Gallo-Roman building debris has been found within a radius of 1.5km.

Gouarec (Cotes-du-Nord) References: Eveillard 1976:211-220; Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 13 N 3 11 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismi

Morlaix (Finistere) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 35 N 3 50 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii

Summary: The location of the site was on a major Roman road from Rennes to Carhaix at the river crossing of the Dore. Numerous finds were discovered in the river-bed when a new bridge was built in 1834, among them clay

156

Vici in Roman Gaul

Summary: The site was located at an intersection of several minor Roman roads at the crossing of the river Morlaix. This was a first fording site and there was probably a small harbour. A route from Le Mans to the extreme northwestern point of St-Matthieu went past this site, as well as a route to Quimper. Gallo-Roman finds are limited so far to tiles and coins. Fortifications might have surrounded the settlement. There was evidence for the fortifications barring the spur of land formed by the confluence of two small streams, the Jarlot and Queffleuth. These ramparts dated from the Late Empire (coin ofGallienus).

Galliou 1983:48, 60, 84;

Rostrenen (Cotes-du-Nord) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 14 N 3 19 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii Summary: The site was located on the major Roman road from Rennes to Carhaix. Numerous Gallo-Roman small finds have been recovered including coins of the reign of Augustus, Tiberius, Claudius, Gallienus, Postumus and Tetricus, as well as pottery including samian ware.

References: Galliou 1983:46, 48, 60, 84, 174, 258, 272;

Mur-de-Bretagne (Cotes-du-Nord) References: Eveillard 1976:211-220 (in particular p.215); Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 12 N 2 59 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii

Saint-Meloir-des-Ondes (Ille-et-Vilaine) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 39 N 1 54 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Coriosolites

Summary: This was possibly a relay-station (mutatio ), on the major Roman road from Rennes to Carhaix. References: Eveillard 1976:211-220; Galliou 1983:46;

Summary: The location of the site was at the junction of two minor Roman roads, one leading to St.-Malo (site: Alet). The possible vicus seemed to have covered a surface area of 45ha (site: L'ouest du bourg). Foundations of buildings have been discovered associated with samian ware from central Gaul dating to the second and third century. One villa has been found within a radius of 3km (site: La Lignerie).

Port Louis (Morbihan) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 47 43 N 3 21 W Latin name: VINDANA PORTUS (?) Territory: Veneti

References:CAG 35, L'Ille-et-Vilaine, 1990:61-63;

Summary: The site is located on the estuary of the Blavet. It was possibly the VINDANA PORTUS mentioned by Ptolemaeus (Ptol. II, 8, 1). Moreau gives Locmariaquer (section G 4.10) as the identification (Moreau 1972:371; 1983:274). There have been numerous small Gallo-Roman finds and a good natural harbour at the mouth of the river Blavet makes it likely that this was a river or sea port.

Treguier (Cotes-du-Nord) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 48 47 N 3 14 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii

References: Galliou 1983:85, 173;

Summary: The site was located on the north coast of Brittany, at the terminus of a Roman road from Carhaix and on a Roman coastal route from St.-Malo (site: Alet). Little is known of the settlement.

Quimperle (Finistere) Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 47 52 N 3 33 W Latin name: Unknown Territory: Osismii

References: Galliou 1983:48, 54;

Tronoen en Saint-Jean-Trolimon (Finistere)

Summary: The site was located on a minor Roman road from Quimper to Vannes, where the river Elle was crossed. A bath complex and villa are known (site: Foret de Camoet). References: Gallia 35, 1977:367; 37, 1979:369;

Circ.: Bretagne Coords.: 47 52 N 4 17 W Latin name: Unknown

157

Monica Rorison

Territory: Osisrnii Summary: The site is located on the extreme western coast of Brittany. There was evidence for an important sanctuary with pre-Roman origin. The site is now covered by sand dunes, but architectural elements and sculptures have been preserved. A settlement has not been found, but a harbour or coastal station is likely to have existed. A dedication to the numen of Augustus has been discovered (CIL XIII, 3142). References: Galliou 1983:59, 85, 148, 161, 189, 195, 198, 199, 245;

158

Centre Index of 31 vici and 17 'further possible sites'

Section

Site

Section

Site

Page

05.26

Saint-Satur (Cher)

173

Page

G 5.1

Alleans-Baugy, (Cher)

161

05.27

Sceau-du-Gatinais (Loiret)

173

G5.2

Allichamps-Bruere (Cher)

162

05.28

Trigueres (Loiret)

174

G5.3

Amboise (Indre-et-Loire)

163

05.29

Verdes (Loir-et-Cher)

174

G5.4

Areines (Loir-et-Cher)

163

G 5.30

Vienne-en-Val (Cher)

176

G5.5

Argenton-sur-Creuse (Indre)

166

G 5.31

Villeneuve-sur-Cher (Cher)

176

G5.6

Blois (Loir-et-Cher)

166

G5.7

Bonnee (Loiret)

166

G5.8

Bouzy-la-Foret (Loiret)

166

Section

G5.9

Briou (Loir-et-Cher)

166

05.32

G 5.10

Chateaumeillant (Cher)

166

G 5.11

Appendix of 'further possible sites': Site

Page

Baudreville (Eure-et-Loire)

176

Briare (Loiret)

176

Chinon/Cravant (Indre-et-Loire) 167

Chateaudun (Eure-et-Loir)

177

G 5.12

Clion (Indre)

167

Crottes-en-Pithiverais (Loiret)

177

G 5.13

Deols (Indre)

167

Dampierre-en-Burly (Loiret)

177

G 5.14

Drevant (Cher)

168

Dreux (Eure-et-Loir)

177

G 5.15

Gievres (Loir-et-Cher)

168

Freteval (Loir-et-Cher)

177

G 5.16

Langeais (Indre-et-Loire)

168

Levet (Cher)

177

G 5.17

Levroux (Indre)

169

Merouville (Eure-et-Loir)

178

G 5.18

Luynes (Indre-et-Loire)

170

Neuvy-en-Sullias (Loiret)

178

G 5.19

Montbuoy (Loiret)

170

Soings-en-Sologne (Loir-et-Cher) 178

05.20

Mougon (Indre-et-Loire)

171

Suevres (Loir-et-Cher)

178

G 5.21

Neung-sur-Beuvron (Loir-et-Cher)

171

Thaumiers (Cher)

178

Thesee (Loir-et-Cher)

178

05.22

N ouatre (Indre-et-Loire)

171 Vendoeuvres-en-Brenne (Cher)

179

G 5.23

Pithiviers-le-Vieil (Loiret)

171 Vrigny (Loiret)

179

G 5.24

Pouille (Loir-et-Cher)

172

G 5.25

Saint-Ambroix (Cher)

172

Yzeures-sur-Creuse (Indre-et-Loire) 179

159

Monica Rorison

CENTRE MAPV

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160

Vici in Roman Gaul

G 5.1

Alleans-Baugy (Cher)

Public Buildings: The theatre, which was of modest size (diameter: 67.60m), was rediscovered by aerial survey (site: les Retraits). During 1887 a fountain, pool and aqueduct were discovered, but associated finds are unfortunately lost to us. They were probably part of a water sanctuary which also comprised three square Jana and one circular shrine surrounded by an enclosure wall (aerial survey by J. Holmgren 1980). This site has yielded pottery dating to the mid-first, as well as second to fourth century. Settlement: The remains of constructions have been found inside and outside the earth enclosure (site: Monts). There was evidence of workshop activity (metal working, pottery and grinding com). Finds included an abundance of imported pottery from southern and central Gaul and coins ranged from the first to the fourth century in date with a gap during the second half of the third century. The cemetery was situated 300m west of the enclosure, covering an area of Iha. It contained two cult buildings and funerary monuments, dated from the second to the third century, with representations of: a saddler, a textile dyer, a musician (?), a woodcutter, a woman with a skein of wool and three representations of men holding books. At least 43 steles have been found. They have been interpreted as the work of local craftsmen and compare well with those found at Saint-Ambroix (section G 5.25). The inscriptions have preserved a collection of twenty-one local names: GrecoRoman (1), Celtic origin (8-9), Latin names common in Gaul (11). References: Gallia 36, 1978:261-2; 42, 1984:271-3; Leday 1980:310-313;386-431; Grenier, 1958:937-8; Pelletier et al. 1985:157-166; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:60-9;

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 05 N 2 44 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location was at a crossroads of minor Roman routes about 30km east of its civitas- capital at Bourges. The main Roman road from Bourges to Neverspassed 2km of the site. The site occupied an undated walled enclosure and its surroundings (Fig.22). A sanctuary, theatre, aqueduct and fountain, as well as a settlement and cemetery are known. The cemetery produced remarkable inscribed stones and carved steles representing local trades. There was evidence for workshop activity (bronze and iron working, pottery, stone masonry and food processing). The vicus covered an area of 1520ha. Occupation dated possibly from the end of the Late La Tene period to the fourth century, but the sanctuary seemed to have been abandoned by the middle of the third century. The main function of the vicus was religious, but it was also a market and production centre for the surrounding area. Inscriptions: Twenty inscriptions are known from CIL (CIL XIII, 1223, 1225, 1232, 1330 - 1346) and some inscriptions are recent finds (Leday 1980:299). Three figurative stelae have been published (Gallia 36, 1978:2612).

500m

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N

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Fig. 22 Alleans-Baugy, plan of the site (after Leday, Pelletier 1985: 158) Key to relevant numbers: 1 = enclosure (site: Monts), 2 = cemetery 3 = theatre, 4 = sanctuary, 5-6 = remains of buildings, 7 = site of the ancient "Chateau de Baugy"

161

Monica Rorison

G5.2

Allichamps-Bruere (Cher)

was also a production centre, in particular for quarrying and working stone.

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 47 N 2 26 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Inscriptions: At least ten inscnpt10ns have been found, three of them of the Numen Augustus type (CIL XIII, 1355, 1356, 1357). These and an inscription to the 'genius of the emperor' (CIL XIII, 1362), have been interpreted by Leday as evidence of a military presence (Leday 1980:302-5). Another four inscriptions were commemorative ( CIL XIII, 1359, 1360, 1361, 1363). Two inscribed milestones are known ( CIL XIII, 8922, 8923). The former, now reerected in the centre of the village, gives the distance to Bourges, Neris and Chateaumeillant, measured in leugae. The other one was inscribed with the distance to Bourges, the civitas- capital. An altar, dedicated to the spirit of Augustus and the divinity Apollo Bassoledulitanus, was discovered south ofBruere (Leday 1980:303). At least 10 funerary stelae have been found (CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:283-4) Observations: A section of the Roman road from Bourges to Neris has been excavated (site: Les Varnes). It had several horizons of maintenance. The last repair dated to the Late Empire, evidenced by a coin of Constantine II (AD 337-40). References: Gallia 26, 1968:327; 42, 1984:280-1; Leday 1980:301-8; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:278-84;

Summary: This is a complex site with three cores at Allichamps, Bruere and Celle. The location was on the right bank of the river Cher, where a major Roman road from Bourges to Neris was joined by a road from Chateaumeillant (Fig.23). The river was crossed via a ford and probably a bridge. It was navigable and probably used as a waterway to ship stone from the quarries at Celle to Bourges, where examples have been discovered (distance: 30km). There was evidence for a settlement and at least two cemeteries used during the Gallo-Roman and Merovingian period. A sanctuary possibly existed, but only an inscribed altar has been found. There was some evidence of a bath establishment. The vicus probably covered an area of 10-15ha. At least three villas were situated in close proximity of the settlement. The vicus, which was preceded by a Late La Tene settlement (site: Paturaux des Chaumes), continued into the fourth century. There was evidence for Merovingian occupation. This was a river/road relay station, serving traffic and transport. It

10 1

N

t

10

10

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1000M

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8

Fig. 23 Allichamps-Bruere, plan of the site (after Leday, Dumasy 1990: 449) Key to relevant symbols: A= Gallo-Roman occupation, 1 = road, Bourges-Neris, 2 = road to Chateaumeillant, 3 = cemetery (Gallo-Roman and Merovingian), 4 =baths(?), 5 = cemetery (High Middle Ages), 6 = prehistoric enclosures, 7 = church of"Le Sauveur", 8 = altar dedicated to Apollo-Bassoledulitanus, 9 = quarries of La Celle, 10 = villa

162

Vici in Roman Gaul

G 5.3

Amboise (Indre-et-Loire)

Public Buildings: The theatre-amphitheatre was of modest dimensions (diameter: 68m). It originated in the Augustan period and was reconstructed in the second century (plan: CAG 41, 1988:117; Gallia 43, 1985:323). It was destroyed during the second half of the third century, but there was evidence of some recovery of use during the fourth century. The temple, which had a cella and ambulatory was probably dedicated to the local water divinity. An oval pool and ritual pits were found nearby. This area was associated with finds of needles to treat cataract, bone spatulas, surgical instruments and ex-voto. The temple had, like the theatre two building phases, one in the first and one in the second century. The sanctuary was surrounded by structures built in perishable materials and occupied until the fourth century. There were finds of samian ware and coins. The baths were situated a few hundred meters south of the theatre. Observations: Late in the Roman period the settlement probably shifted to nearby Vendome (distance: 2km), situated on the opposite bank of the little Loir. Roman remains have been found in the modem town, as well as a Merovingian burial ground, which was preceded by a small Gallo-Roman cemetery. Vendome was situated on the important route from Tours to Chartres. References: Gallia 43, 1985:323; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:28, 116-19; Dumasy 1974:195-218; Grenier 1958: 739-740;

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 25 N 0 59 E Latin name: AMBATIA Territory: Turones Summary: The location of the site, which was occupied until the second century, is on a spur dominating the Loire at the confluence with a small stream, the Amasse (plan: Gallia 42, 1984:298). After the second century the population shifted to the foot of the spur, where modem Amboise is situated. A Roman road led along the left bank of the Loire and was met here by a route from a southerly direction, probably from Poitiers. A large building (30x30m approximately), which was situated on the spur has been interpreted as a fanum, and its use has been dated from the first to the second century. The Latin name of Amboise and the location of a Late Empire castrum is known from the writings of Sulpicius Severus (Dial., II, (III), 8, 4). A parish was founded here during the fourth and a monastery in the fifth century (Moreau 1972:306). The vicus on the spur (site: Les Chatelliers), covered about 12ha. Two villas are known at the site. There was evidence for workshop activity (pottery, iron, bronze and bone working). Weaving was in evidence thanks to the find of loom weights. The vicus at Les Chatelliers was preceded by an oppidum occupied during the Late La Tene period (Collis 1975:193). The settlement at the foot of the spur survived into the Merovingian period and beyond. The function of the early vicus was mainly production and commerce near an important route or road junction by the Loire. It had probably a religious and military role during the Late Empire.

G 5.5

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 35 N 1 31 E Latin name: ARGENTOMAGUS Territory: Bituriges Cubi

References: Gallia 24, 1966:253; 30, 1972:331; 36, 1978:278; 38, 1980:328-9; 42, 1984:297-301; CAG 37, L'Indre-et-Loire, 1988:70-3; plan 71;

G 5.4

Argenton-sur-Creuse (Indre)

Summary: The location of the site was at the river crossing of the Creuse by a major Roman road from Bordeaux to Bourges and Lyon (Fig. 24a). A ford and a bridge led across the river, which probably became navigable here. It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. and Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:310; 1983:19). This was the site of an important sanctuary, which consisted of three temples, a monumental fountain and possibly a forum or public square. A theatre, amphitheatre and baths were situated at a slight distance from the core of the vicus (Fig. 24a). The buildings were aligned to a street grid. There was evidence of workshop activity, in particular iron and bronze working, but also the production of pottery and bone objects. Three cemeteries are known. The vicus covered about 70-100ha and several villas were found within a radius of 12km. It was preceded by a major hillfort of the Late La Tene period on the plateau of Mersans (Collis 1975:195). The Gallo-Roman site continued in the same location, but spread particularly along the road north on the plateau of Courates and south to the bank of the Creuse (Fig. 24a). Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth century,

Areines (Loir-et-Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 48 N 1 06 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes Summary: The location of the site was at a junction of two Roman roads, one from Orleans to Le Mans and the other from Blois to Le Mans. It was a frontier site of the Camutes and Turones. The remains are situated on the left bank of the little Loir. A theatre, temple and baths are known. The settlement was probably small. Gallo-Roman burials have been found. There was some evidence of Late La Tene occupation. Occupation of the vicus was dated from the first to the fourth century, with some disruption during the third century. Its function was mainly religious. This was a water sanctuary with a healing function.

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Monica Rorison

with some disruption during the third or early fourth century. There was however no evidence of violent destruction (Dumasy 1990:37). During the Late Empire the site shifted to the riverside, where the early churches of St.-Etienne and St.-Marcel were founded and the early medieval settlement grew up. The function of the vicus was religious and commercial and it was a production centre particularly for the manufacture of iron and bronze objects. It served on an important cross roads as a road station.

belong to one of these cellars dated to the mid-second century. The house above probably had a ground and first floor. Another cellar nearby, similarly sunk into the ancient remains, housed a domestic altar containing two seated, draped figures carved in limestone with a pebble in the shape of a phallus between them. The statue on the left wore a tore round wrist and neck and held a serpent on his lap. The slightly smaller statue on the right, held a pouch or purse in one fist. Both faced a round stone table, interpreted as an offertory table (CAG 36, 1992:79). The entire room with its white cement floor is believed to have been a domestic shrine in the Gallo-Roman tradition, comparable to Roman shrines dedicated to the domestic divinities or fares. Nearby, a once open courtyard contained another small, possibly roofed shrine, housing the remains of a goddess of prosperity with her horn of plenty by the side. Observations: Roman imperial coins found at Argenton ranged from the reign of Augustus to Valens (AD 367375).

Inscriptions: Three major inscnpt10ns have been discovered. Two had similar texts and were dedications of a person called Quintus Sergius Macrinus, who dedicated to the numen of Augustus and the divinity Mercury. These inscriptions, probably carved during the reign of Tetricus and his son (269-273), have been associated with the rebuilding of the temple after the disruptions during the second half of the third century (Gallia 30, 1972:323-9). A further fragmented inscription was a dedication to the mother of the gods, made by a priest of the altar of the Three Gauls at Lyon, who was also president of its council ( Gallia 30, 1972:328-9). The latter is an indication of the importance of this sanctuary. Another religious inscription was found re-used in the parish church of St.-Marcel (CIL XIII, 1317). Public Buildings: Three temples, surrounded by their enclosures were situated at the core of the sanctuary (Fig. 24 b, Nos.6, 7, 8). One of the temples (No.8), was dated to the first half of the first century and was preceded by an earlier temple, of which only the postholes remain. The porticos lining the main street north of the temples were constructed during the second century. To the east of the temples a monumental fountain with a covered, rectangular pool and access stairways was built in grand appareil during the second half of the first century (plan: Gallia 30, 1972:320). The early theatre (diameter: 60m), dated from the first half of the first century, but was replaced by a second, larger and improved version dating to 150-170 (site: Virou, plan: Gallia 32, 1974:309). The new theatre was enlarged (diameter: 80-90m), and among its innovations was a tier of seventy seats with special access for honoured guests. The theatre showed signs of destruction during the fourth century, but it was not clear if this was demolition work (Dumasy 1990:37). The amphitheatre was probably built during the first half of the second century at the border of the two settled areas; the plateaus ofMersans and Courates. The baths were discovered near the river Creuse, but were unfortunately destroyed during the nineteenth century. A further public building of unknown function has been discovered at the modem museum site (Fig.24 b, No.I). The remains, excavated during 1983/7, are named la crypte archeologique and consist of a set of massive walls and butresses, which were originally probably remains of granaries. Already during the second century these remains seemed to have been underground and houses dating to that period had their cellars sunk into the remains. Walls with painted plaster in patterns, coloured red, yellow and black,

References: Gallia 24, 1966:248; 26, 1968:335; 28, 1970:260-5; 30, 1972:321-9; 32, 1974:308-13; 34, 1976:318-20; 36, 1978:273-6; 38, 1980:325-8; 42, 1984:318-23; Dumasy 1990:30-37; CAG 36, Indre, 1992:67-91;

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Vici in Roman Gaul

Fig. 24 a

Argenton-sw--Creuse, plan of the site (after Dumasy 1990:27).

Key to the relevant symbols: 1 = road to Poitiers and Orleans, 2 = cemetery, (Champ de l'hnage), 3 = sanctuary, 4 = theatre, 5 = amphitheatre, 6 = cemetery (Des Ripottes), 7 = museum site, 8 = part of sanctuary, 9 = monumental fountain, 10 = baths, 11 = church of St-Etienne, 12 = road to Bordeaux, 13, 15 = road to Bourgesand Lyon

..

q t=l

Fig. 24 b Argenton-sur-Creuse, plan of the plateau ofMersans (after Dumasy 1990:27)

Key to the relevant symbols: 1 = museum site (excavations), 2 = main street (north-south), 4 =porticos, 5 =main street (east-west), 6 = temple (Nr.1), 7 = temple (Nr. 2), 8 = temple (Nr.3), 9 = street (east of temples), 10 = monumental fountain

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Monica Rorison

G5.6

Blois (Loir-et-Cher)

G5.8

Boozy-la-Foret (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 35 N 1 20 E Latin name: BLESUM (?) Territory: Carnutes

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 51 N 2 23 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes

Summary: The location of the site was on the right bank of the Loire, where the Roman road from Bourges to Chartres crossed the river. Its Latin name is only known from the sixthcentury(Moreau 1972:315; 1983:43). ltwaspossibly a river port. The settlement was aligned to a street grid. Two cemeteries were situated by the main road where it entered and left the vicus. The baths were found near the Loire. Workshop activity included pottery and tile manufacture, weaving and barrel making. There was evidence of mining and processing of iron. The vicus was surrounded by villas. Evidence of Late La Tene occupation was found on a promontory (Arretine ware of Italian origin and amphorae, Dressel 1). Occupation of the vicus lasted from the first to the fifth century. During the Merovingian period it was known as the pagus-capital of the region of Blesois (Moreau, 1972:315; 1983:43). The function of the vicus was commercial and it served as a production centre at an important river crossing.

Summary: The location of the site was about 7km north of Bonnee (section G 5.7, above). It is known for its numerous ponds. It was situated on a minor road, off the major Roman road to Orleans. A small theatre is known (diameter: 40m, plan: Grenier 1958:877). Little is known of the sanctuary, or the settlement. This was a frontier site of the Carnutes and Senones. Two coin hoards with Roman coins of the second and third century have been found. This was mainly a religious site, namely a water sanctuary, but might have acted as a rural market in a frontier region. References: CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:42; 79-80; Dumasy 1974:195-218; Grenier 1958:876-7;

G 5.9 Briou (Loir-et-Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 49 N 1 29 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes

Observations: The site generally produced an abundance of samian ware and Roman coins and there was evidence of an aqueduct, mosaics and sculpture at the site of the baths. References: Gallia 30, 1972:330; 34, 1976:322; 36, 1978:280; 43, 1984:323; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:24; 81-7;

G5.7

Summary: The location of the site was on a Roman road which linked the Loire valley with the little Loir and about 28km east of the sanctuary at Areines (section G 5.4). It was possibly a frontier site of the Carnutes and Aureliani. Three sets of temples and annexe buildings have been found. The foundations of buildings, belonging to the settlement, were found near the course of the Roman road. One of the temples dated to the Late Empire and was associated with numerous coins of the third and fourth century. The vicus was preceded by a Late La Tene settlement. Occupation has not been dated with any certainty, but a Merovingian cemetery suggested that there was continuity into the early medieval period. The function of the vicus was mainly religious, but it also probably served as a road station.

Bonnee (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 48 N 2 23 E Latin name: Unknow Territory: Carnutes Summary: The location of the site was in the Loire valley, near the river crossing of a major Roman road from Autun to Orleans. A sanctuary with theatre and baths, as well as a cemetery have been found, but there was little evidence of a settlement. It was a frontier site of the Carnutes and Senones. Finds included samian ware of the first and second century and Roman imperial coins ranged from the first to the fourth century. Occupation was probably also from the first to the fourth century. This was mainly a religious site, but it also served traffic and transport on a major road.

References: Gallia 26, 1968:341-2; 30, 1972:330; 38, 1980:321; 43, 1985:323; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:30; 95-7;

G5.10

Chateaumeillant (Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 34 N 2 12 E Latin name: MEDIOLANUM Territory: Bituriges Cubi

References: CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:42; 64-5; Dumasy 1974:195-218; Grenier 1958:878;

Summary: The location of the site was in the southern part of the modern town, which is on a plateau dominating two

166

Vici in Roman Gaul

small river valleys to the east and west. Three major routes converged here; Argenton-Neris, Lyon-Bourges and Saintes-Lyon. It is known as a road station from the Peut. Tab. and the Latin name occurs on a Merovingian coin as the castrum of MEDIOLANUM (Moreau 1972:345; 1983:71). The Latin name is also known from a milestone found at Allichamps-Bruere. The settlement was preceded by a major hillfort of the Late La Tene period, of which the murus-gallicus defences are known (Collis 1975:193). At the time of the Gallic Wars the hillfort was settled and numerous finds of the middle of the first century BC have been made (site: Faubourg St-Martin). The Gallo-Roman vicus developed on the same site, but very little is known of its organisation. Very few remains of construction have been found, although pits ditches and burials are evidence of dense settlementat the core of the vicus. Occupation ranges from the Augustan period to the Late Empire (plan: CAG 18, 1992:191). Only its function as a road station is certain.

G 5.12

Clion (Indre)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 56 N 1 14 E Latin name: CLAUDIOMAGUS Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location of the site was near the confluence of the Ozance with the Indre river. There is evidence of the vicus and its nature as a frontier site of the Bituriges and Turones due to the writing of Sulpicius Severus (Dial. II, 5). According to Moreau it was a rural parish and monastic centre of the fourth century (Moreau 1972:323; 1983:77). The sanctuary consisted of a theatre (diameter: 85m), and two temples associated with sculptures and domestic pottery dating to the first and second century. A villa is known in the vicinity (site: Grand Mee). The function of the vicus was mainly religious. References: Gallia 42, 1984:308-309; CAG 36, Indre, 1992:122-4; plan:122

References: Gallia 30, 1972:320; 32, 1974:307; Cag 18, Le Cher, 1992:190-200;

G 5.13 G 5.11 Chinon (Indre-et-Loire) Coords.: 47 10 N O 15 E with Cravant-les-Coteaux (Indre-et-Loire)

Deols (Indre)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 50 N 1 42 E Latin name: DOLUS (?) Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 09 N O 21 E Latin name: CAINO (?) Territory: Turones

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Argenton-sur-Creuse to Bourges, where the river Indre was crossed. Little is known about it, but a concentration of finds was discovered where the road crossed the river by a ford. Other finds were made near the parish church of St.Etienne including pottery dating from the second to the fourth century. It is believed that two cellae memoriae preceded the two crypts of the church, which still contains sarcophagi reputed to have held the remains of St.-Ludre and St.-Leocade, venerated as early evangelists. The marble and limestone coffins have been dated to approximately end third century (Esperandieu II, Nr.1560) During the Merovingian period the settlement was known as Dolus Vico (Moreau 1972:328; 1983:89).

Summary: This was a widespread assembly of GalloRoman sites on the right bank of the river Vienne near a cross roads. The most important route led to Tours, the site of the civitas-capital at a distance of about 40km. There was evidence of the baths (site: Tour Horloge), an aqueduct (site: Parking de la Breche), porticos (site: Caves Vaslins) and extensive tufa quarries (site: Caves de la Breche et du College). At least two villas have been found in the vicinity. There was evidence of processing iron (furnaces), agricultural and forest work, weaving and possibly pottery production. Dating of workshop activity was from the first to the third century. A Late Empire fortification, the castrum of CAINO may have its foundations below the Chateau de Chinon, which has produced evidence of occupation from the second half of the third century. According to Moreau, Chinon was fortified and the ancient church of St.-Mexme was the site of a fifth century monastery and the centre of a rural parish of the same date (Moreau 1972:318; 1983:73). This was a production site, particularly for quarried stone and iron ore.

References: Gallia 42, 1984:310; CAG 36, Indre, 1992:115-7;

References: Gallia 43, 1985:304-7; CAG 37, L'Indre-et-Loire, 1988:49-54;

167

Monica Rorison

G 5.14

Drevant (Cher)

pottery manufacture and weaving. Two cemeteries are known. Occupation was from early in the first to the fourth century. Finds included the inscribed set of an oculist (CAG 41, 1988:42). The function of the vicus was to serve as a road station and as a production centre.

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 42 N 2 31 E Latin name: DERVENTUM Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location of the site was on a major Roman road from Neris to Bourges. It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. and Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1983:89). There was a monumental core of public buildings, including a temple, theatre and two baths. Remains of the settlement have been found below the medieval cemetery, which produced among other finds a Gallo-Roman funerary relief The vicus was preceded by a major hillfort of the Late La Tene period at La Groutte (Collis 1975:195). Occupation of the vicus was dated from the first to the fourth century. This was mainly a religious centre, but it also served as a road station.

Observations: The two cremation cemeteries produced material including coins dating from the first to the fourth century (sites: L'Erable and Marais Lardier). One burial had as grave gifts a pair of large shears used in textile manufacture for clipping the pile of woollen cloth.

Inscriptions: Two inscriptions are known: 1) a religious inscription dedicated to the numen of Augustus; 2) a funerary inscription (CIL XIII, 1364, 1364 b ).

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 20 N O 24 E Latin name: ALINGA VIA Territory: Turones

References: Gallia 28, 1970: 266; 30, 1972: 330; 32, 1974: 314; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988: 31; 39-43;

G 5.16

Public buildings: The theatre-amphitheatre (diameter: 85 m), would have accommodated up to 8000 spectators and is remarkable for its fine architectural features. It was erected during the first, or early in the second century. Associated coins ranged from the reign of Claudius to Gratian (AD 375-383). The temple was probably a double fanum. It was surrounded by an enclosure with porticos (plan: Gallia 42, 1984: 282). Building was dated to two phases; erection in the first and reconstruction in the second century. Coin finds dated from the first to the fourth century. The plan of the two baths has been preserved, but little is known of the chronology (plan: Leday 1980: PL LXXXIII).

Summary: The location was on the right bank of the Loire, where a Roman road from Angers to Tours crossed the river Roumer. Its Latin name is known since a rural parish was installed here in the fourth century and it was still a centre of Christianity during the sixth century (Moreau 1972:305; 1983:138). The organisation of the settlement is not known, but foundations of buildings have been discovered associated with finds of Roman coins. There was some evidence of a Gallo-Roman and Merovingian cemetery. Dating of occupation is not possible with any certainty, but there was continuity into the early Middle Ages. The function of the site was probably mainly to serve as a road station and during the Late Empire as a religious centre. Observations: The origin of a stele representing the divinity Sucellus between female divinities is disputed (Esperandieu 1911, Nos.2988-9). It was possibly not found at Langeais, but at Tours (distance: 24km). However, it is now re-used in the gable of a house at Langeais (CAG 37, 1988:114). References: CAG 37, L'Indre et Loire, 1988:113-14; Audin 1976:200-201;

References: Gallia 32, 1974: 307; 34, 1976: 313; 36, 1978: 263; 38, 1980: 313-14; 42, 1984: 281-2; Grenier 1958: 360-1; 929-36; Leday 1980: 390-7; CAG 18, 1992:285-90;

G 5.15

Langeais (Indre-et-Loire)

Gievres (Loir-et-Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 16 N 1 40 E Latin name: GABRIS Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location was on a major Roman road from Bourges to Tours, where it crossed the river Cher. It is known as a road station from the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972: 334; 1983: 119). The river Cher was navigable and there was some evidence of a river port and a bridge. A workshop zone has been discovered with evidence of

168

Vici in Roman Gaul

G 5.17

Levroux (Indre) This was also the location of an early Gallic village which had preceded the hillfort. Occupation of the vicus is not yet dated with any certainty. Finds, including coins and samian ware ranged from the first century BC and all through the Augustan period. There was evidence of pottery production during the firdt century. Levroux was probably a regional centre with an important religious function.

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 59 N 1 37 E Latin name: LEPROSUS Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location was at a junction of Roman roads, which were probably preceded by important Gallic routes leading from Bourges to Argenton-sur-Creuse and Tours. The Latin name is known from the writings of Sulpicius Severus (Vit.Mart. 14, 3). It was a rural parish during the fourth and fifth centuries (Moreau 1972:340; 1983:142). A theatre was situated near the Roman road junction (plan: Grenier 1958:849). The vicus was preceded by a major Late La Tene hillfort, the Oppidum-des-Tours (Collis 1975:194). The Gallo-Roman settlement succeeded it 1km south of the hillfort during the Augustan period (Fig. 25).

Inscriptions: An inscription suggests a sanctuary dedicated to Mars Cososo (CIL XIII 1353) Observations: If Levroux had a public monumental centre, it might have been situated where the medieval centre grew up later, midway between the hillfort and the Augustan settlement (Dumasy 1990:448). References: Gallia 32, 1974:313; 34, 1976:317; 36, 1978:270-2; 38, 1980:322; 42, 1984:311; CAG 36, Indre, 1992:164-73;

X

Fig. 25 Levroux, plan of the site (after Buchsenschutz, Dumasy 1990: 444). Key of the relevant symbols: A= Gallo-Roman occupation, B = Gallic open settlement, 1 = road, Argenton - Orleans, 2 = road, Tours - Saint-Ambroix, 3 = oppidum "de Tours", 4 = medieval town centre, 5 = medieval town hall, 6 = cemetery, 7 = theatre, 8 = Gallic open settlement, 9 = Gallo-Roman buildings

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Monica Rorison

G 5.18 Luynes (Indre-et-Loire) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 23 N O 33 E Latin name: MALLE/UM Territory; Turones

side was occupied by a basilica with a semicircular apse at each of its short sides. There was evidence for shops nearby. The baths were destroyed when a canal was built during the early part of this century. Observations: A carved funerary reliefrepresented a basket full of bobbins, suggesting the craft of spinning. Numerous finds of shears for shearing sheep suggested agricultural activity, in particular the raising of sheep for wool. References: Gallia 30, 1972:317; 38, 1980:340-1; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:41; 142-150; Dumasy 1974:195-218; Grenier 1960:730-3;

Summary: The location was on the right bank of the Loire on the Roman road from Tours to Angers and probably by a junction of a route to Le Mans. It was the site of a small castrum during the Late Empire and a rural parish in the fifth century (Moreau 1972:343; 1983:152). Little is known of the settlement, but some buildings and burials have been found. Small finds included Roman coins and imported pottery. There was probably a small river port on the Loire. Four villas are known on the site. The remains of an aqueduct and baths are considered to have been part of a villa (site: Clos de Ste.-Roselle, plan: CAG 37, 1988:110111). Occupation was dated from the middle of the first to the fifth century and possibly beyond into the early Middle Ages. The function of the vicus was probably to serve as a road station and it was a religious centre during the Late Empire. References: Gallia 36, 1978:278; Audin 1976:197-206; CAG 37, L'Indre-et-Loire, 1988:108-111

G 5.19

Montbuoy (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 52 N 2 49 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Senones Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Orleans to Auxerre, where the river Loing was crossed. A theatre, two temples, a forum and the baths are known (Fig. 26). Little is known of the settlement, but there was evidence for buildings with cellars and workshop activity (tile kilns and manufacture of bone objects). Occupation has been dated from the Late La Tene period to the fourth century. This was mainly a religious site, e.g. a water sanctuary with a healing function. It also served probably as a road station and there was evidence for commercial and manufacturing activity.

Fig. 26 Montbuoy, plan of the site (after Dumasy 1974: 200)

Public buildings: The theatre was probably an amphitheatre situated 750m from the sanctuary (site: Chennevieres). Finds including coins, dated its use from the first to the fourth century. One of the two temples was a fanum, the other one a more complex water sanctuary incorporating a spring which was set in a polygonal enclosure (plan: Dumasy 1974:207). A further pool was situated outside the temple enclosure. By this rectangular pool numerous surgical instruments and ex-voto were found. The forum was surrounded by porticos on three sides and the fourth

The plan shows the sanctuary consisting of the amphitheatre, temple,fanum and baths, marked "Thermes"

170

Vici in Roman Gaul

G 5.20

Mougon (Indre-et-Loire) (Commune de Crouzilles)

second century. It was probably destroyed in the third century, but there was some evidence of occupation in the fourth century. The last coin dated to Gratian (AD 375383). References: Gallia 36, 1978:281-2; 38, 1980:335-6; 43, 1985:328-331; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:29; 626;

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 06 N O 28 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Turones Summary: The location was on the right bank of the river Vienne on a Roman road which led along the riverside. The site was near a junction with the major road from Tours to Poitiers. The river Vienne was navigable and there was probably a river port. Evidence of extensive potteries has been found and other workshop activity (weaving). A cemetery is known. The vicus covered about 15ha. One villa is known in the vicinity. Occupation was dated from the first to the second half of the third century. This was a production centre with a commercial function.

G5.22

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 03 N 1 31 E Latin name: NOGASTRUM (?) Territory: Turones Summary: The location was on the right bank of the river Vienne, near the major Roman road from Tours to Poitiers. The Latin name is known from a tenth century document (Moreau 1972:348). The organisation of the settlement, now covered by the modem market town, is not known. There was evidence of pottery manufacture (workshops, pottery stores, samian ware and their moulds (site: La Richardiere ). Foundations of buildings have been discovered associated with small finds including imported pottery and Roman coins. A small cremation cemetery, situated on the major Roman road east of the vicus, was in use during the first century. One villa has been discovered in the immediate vicinity of the vicus (site: La Croix d' Argenson). Occupation of the vicus was possibly from the first to the fifth century. Its function was mainly to serve as a manufacturing centre near a major road.

Settlement: Twenty pottery kilns and workshops were situated along the riverside road. Production included domestic and samian ware, clay figurines and their moulds and wine amphorae. The wine amphorae, dated from AD 30-40, suggested a flourishing local viticulture (Gallia 43, 1985:307-8). Observations: Oysters with closed shells stored in a pit (measurements: 4x5m, depth: lm), suggested a cargo which failed to reach its destination. References: Gallia 32, 1974:315-16; 34 1976:320; 43, 1985:307-8; CAG 37, L'Indre-et-Loire, 1988:46-8; Kermovant and Delaune 1976:76-83;

G 5.21

Nouatre (Indre-et-Loire)

Observations: A section of the major Roman road (ToursPoitiers), has been excavated at nearby Tailles de la Croix d' Argenson. References: Gallia 43, 1985:311; CAG 37, L'Indre-etLoire, 1988:42-3; Delaune 1976:111-16;

N eung-sur-Beuvron (Loir-et-Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 32 N 1 48 E Latin name: NOVIODUNUM Territory: Bituriges Cubi

G 5.23

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Bourges, via Gievres to Orleans. The river Beuvron was crossed here via a ford at Gue-Mulon. According to Moreau this was the site of the Gallic oppidum of NOVIODUNUM (Moreau 1972:348; 1983:181). There is evidence for a Late La Tene defended settlement (Collis 1975:195-6). It was a frontier site of the Bituriges Cubi and the Camutes. A theatre and a large public building, possibly a temple with an esplanade and porticos, are known. Little is known of the settlement, but there was some evidence of workshop activity and a cemetery has been found. Occupation has been dated from the Late La Tene period to the fourth century. The function of the vicus was possibly religious and it served traffic at an important river crossing.

Pithiviers-le-Vieil (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 10 N 2 13 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes Summary: The location was at a crossroads of two Roman roads; Reims-Orleans and Le Mans-Sens. It was a frontier site of the Camutes and Senones. There was evidence of a complex sanctuary consisting of three groups of temples of the traditional fanum type west of the modem town (plan: Gallia 43, 1985:351). To the east of the sanctuary and partially covered by the modem town, was evidence of a settlement with a workshop zone and Gallo-Roman burials. A Merovingian cemetery is known. The site, including the settlement and sanctuary, covered about 50ha and it was surrounded by several villas. There was some evidence of

Public buildings: The theatre was large (diameter; 100m). It was built in the second half of the first, or in the early

171

Monica Rorison

Late La Tene occupation. The vicus dated from the first to the fourth, possibly fifth century, and it was settled during the Merovingian period. A spring was at the heart of the cult area and among finds of medical instruments was an oculist set with inscription (CAG 45, 1988:191). The site produced an abundance of imported pottery ranging from the first to the fifth century and Gallic, as well as Roman imperial coins dating from the first to the fourth century. The relationship of the sanctuary and settlement is not yet fully understood. The sanctuary had a healing function. References: Gallia 36, 1978:289-291; 38, 1980:346; 43, 1985:344-351; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:41; 188-191;

G5.24

second century and included weaving loom weights. The workshop site produced 80 coins, 69 of them were identifiable. They ranged from the Late La Tene period to the reign of Marcus Aurelius (AD 161-180). References: Gallia 34, 1976:323; 36, 1978:282-3; 38, 1980:336; 43, 1985:331; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:28; 51-7;

G5.25

Saint-Ambroix (Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 56 N 2 07 E Latin name: ERNODURUM Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Pouille (Loir-et-Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 19 N 1 18 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes or Turones

Summary: The location was on a major Roman road from Bourges to Argenton-sur-Creuse near the river crossing of the Amon. Three other Roman roads from Chateaumeillant, Gievres and Levroux joined the major road here (Fig. 27). It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. (Moreau 1972:331; 1983:216). The remains of a shrine and a monumental statue of a divinity suggested the existence of a temple. There was evidence of a basilica and a palaeo-christian church of the fifth century. Another public building was interpreted as store houses or a mansio (plan: Leday 1980: PL. LXXIX). Aerial survey revealed the traces of buildings lining the main road for 700m (shaded with dots in the plan: Fig. 27). There was evidence of workshop activity. A cemetery was discovered at one end of the settlement (Fig. 27, No. 9). It was the origin of a remarkable collection of funerary stelae, many of them with inscriptions. Some of them were described by Esperandieu (1910, Nos.2739-47; 1925, Nos. 6992-7016, also: CAG 18,1992:169-79). The vicus covered about 20ha and was surrounded by at least seven villas, four of them in the immediate vicinity (Fig. 27, Nos.11 ). Occupation was dated from the middle of the first century to the fifth century with a peak during the second and early third century. It was a focus of early Christianity and continued into the Carolingian period. It functioned as an important road station and a religious centre.

Summary: The location was on the left bank of the river Cher. The site was probably connected to the road station of Thesee on the opposite river bank via a ford (section G 5.32). There was evidence of a temple with pool and annexe buildings (hostels). Fifteen kilns and workshops were part of a workshop area (plan: CAG 41, 1988:53). Occupation was dated from the Late La Tene period to the second century, when flooding caused the site to be abandoned. There was some evidence of reduced occupation during the fourth century. The site combined a religious function with that of a production centre. Inscriptions: A religious dedication to a goddess of the spring was found in the cella of one temple, dated to the last two decades of the first century (Gallia 34, 1976:323). It alluded to the floods of the river Cher which occurred here regularly. Public buildings: An early temple with cella (dimensions: 1.80xl .80m) and dated to the mid first century BC, preceded a temple of the Tiberian period which was very much larger (dimensions of cella: 6.45x6.45m). This had outdoor altars attached to it, but no surrounding ambulatory. Its irregular enclosure was probably due to the passage of an ancient track which traversed the sanctuary. At the side of it and by the pool (dimensions: 6.06x4. 77m), an ophthalmic set of instruments, mortaries for mixing pharmaceutics and three occulist ex-voto were found. Four further buildings were interpreted as annexes and hostelries (dimensions of buildings: 1) 48.10x14.80m; 2) 28.90x12m). These two buildings were constructed during the second century and seemed to underline the growing popularity of the sanctuary. Part of a limestone statuette of Pan, found in one of its cellars, suggested that these buildings functioned as part of the sanctuary. Observations: The potters of Pouille did not sign their wares, but graffiti have been found preserving the names of Candida and Alica. The production dated mainly to the

Inscriptions: Three funerary dedications were found; one was dedicated to Jupiter by a Roman citizen of the Quirina Tribe with a Greco-Roman cognomen: Diocharus (CIL XIII, 11154); two others were dedicated respectively to the memory of Ermeros, a name of Greek origin and Mansuetus, a Gallo-Roman name (CIL XIII, 11155, 11156). Observations: Sculptures found at St-Ambroix included an unknown, probably Celtic divinity, the so called 'crouching god', found with the remnants of a shrine. A pillar, representing Mercury and Apollo with attendant figures, was described by Esperandieu (1925, No.6991). Carved effigies on funerary steles, similar to those found at Alleans-Baugy (section G 5.1 above), represented: an

172

Vici in Roman Gaul

armourer, a com merchant, a goldsmith's family, a farmer, a tavern keeper or potter, two scribes, a clothmaker, a basketmaker, a shopkeeper or baker, a money changer or steward, a carpenter. These were dated to the second and early third century. Their homogeneity of style and the fact that some of them were unfinished, suggested a local workshop (Leday 1980:294-310). Two larger than life size statues wearing the toga, might have been part of a funerary monument of an important person, or the civic basilica. References: Dumasy 1990:439-460;Leday 1980:276-321; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992: 167-82;

G 5.26

Fig. 27 St.-Ambroix (Latin: ERNODURUM), plan of the finds (after Leday, Dumasy: 1990: 449)

Saint-Satur (Cher)

A= Gallo-Roman zone of settlement,

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 20 N 2 51 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi or Boii

1 = road, Bourges - Argenton-sur-Creuse,

2 = road to Chateaumeillant, 3 = road to Gievres, 4 = road to Levroux, 5 = palaeo-Christian church, 6 = civic basilica (?), 7 = store houses (?), 8 = sanctuary, 9 = cemetery, 10 = prehistoric enclosures, 11 = villa

Summary: The location is on the left bank of the Loire close to Sancerre which has been associated with a Late L~ Tene primary site of the Boii (Ralston and Buchsenschutz, 1975:8-18). The Roman road from Bourges to Auxerre crossed the Loire here, probably via a bridge. In 1962 a boat loaded with building stone was discovered in the Loire dating to the Roman period. There was evidence of a densely settled zone in the northern section of the vicus (site: Champs de Pierres). Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth century. There was possibly continuation into the early Middle Ages. The function of the vicus was probably commercial and it served traffic and transport at an important river crossing. Observations: Several sites at St.-Satur/St.-Thibault have produced evidence of cellars and foundations of buildings. A mosaic has also been found. Small finds included sculpture, imported samian ware from southern and central Gaul and Gallic and Roman coins.

G5.27

Sceau-du-Gatinais (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 06 N 2 36 E Latin name: AQUAE SEGESTAE/SEGETAE Territory: Camutes Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Sens to Orleans. It is known as a spa and road station from the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:308; 1983:234). The baths, an aqueduct, a second cult pool fed by a spring and a theatre are known. The settlement was aligned to a street grid and located west of the cult area. Funerary steles suggested a cemetery. A zone of villas or town houses was discovered by aerial survey near the baths. Several villas surrounded the vicus. There was some evidence of Late La Tene occupation. The vicus was dated from the first to the fourth century and a Merovingian cemetery was evidence of a settlement during the early Middle Ages. The function of the vicus was to serve as a spa and a road station.

References: Gallia 30, 1972:320; 32, 1974:308; 24, 1976:313-14; 36, 1978:264; 38, 1980:317-18; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:309-11;

Inscriptions: A dedication to the female divinity of the spring, Segeta, inscribed on a marble disc, was discoverd in the three-lobed pool of the baths (Gallia 32, 1974:304-5). It confirms the Latin place name. Public buildings: The baths were probably contained in a large forum complex, of which only the northern section has been excavated (overall dimensions: 400x75m). They consisted of a court with a three-lobed pool surrounded on three sides by the baths buildings (plan: Gallia 34, 1976:327). The interior of the baths were decorated with

173

Monica Rorison

marble, mosaics and sculpted stone. Finds of ex-voto and medical instruments were evidence of the healing function of the sanctuary and its iron rich springs. The construction of the baths was dated from late in the first to early in the second century. There was some disruption and reconstruction during the third century and recovery of occupation during the fourth century. The aqueduct of Sceaux brought fresh water from a distance of at least 25km. The large theatre, in the shape of a perfect half circle, was built into the hillside (diameter: 104m). Between the baths and the theatre was a square temple of which little is known. At a nearby location a further pool was excavated (dimensions: 5.15x5.15m). A spring was still active in this pool, when it was excavated in 1970. The bottom of the pool produced about 900coins, ranging in date from the reign of Vespasian to Theodosius with a majority of fourth century coins. References: Gallia 26, 1968:325-6; 28, 1970:260; 30, 1972:318; 32, 1974:304-5; 34, 1976:327-8; 36, 1978:291-2; 38, 1980:347; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:40; 167-178; Grenier 1960:8746; G 5.28

Trigueres (Loiret)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 56 N 2 59 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Senones THEATRE

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Sens to Bourges at the river crossing of the Roanne. A theatre, temple, baths and aqueduct, as well as three Jana are known (Fig. 28). The settlement was possibly very small, only a few buildings, pits and burials have been found. A large villa was situated near the sanctuary (site: Les Vallees). Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth and possibly fifth century. There was evidence of a Merovingian cemetery. The function of the vicus was mainly religious. It was a water sanctuary with a healing function. Public buildings: The theatre-amphitheatre dated from the second century and was of modest size (diameter: 60m). The temple, situated 100m south of the theatre and aligned with it, was associated with a spring, later dedicated to St.Alpaix. Sculptures and ex-voto were found here. One of the three Jana, situated 1.5km to the north, contained in its cella a menhir, now popularly called: La Roche du Vieux Garcon. This cult area also produced numerous ex-voto. Small finds included Gallic coins and Roman imperial coins dating from the first to the fifth century. References: CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:152-9; Dumasy 1974:195-218; Grenier 1958:944-6; 1960:733-7;

I &irtl

0

■ TEMPLE

~ Fig. 28 Trigueres, plan of the site (after Dumasy 1974: 204) The plan shows the sanctuary, consisitng of a temple, the theatre and the baths (marked: "THERMES"). The three Jana are shown at the head of the valley. The Roman road from Sens to Bourges is marked: "VOIE".

G5.29

Verdes (Loir-et-Cher)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 57 N 1 26 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes Summary: The location of the site was near a lake, now a marshy area in the valley of the Aigre. Two Roman roads joined here; one from Chartres to Blois, the other one from Le Mans. A monumental centre consisting of a forum with basilica, shops, porticos, a bath complex and a temple is known (Fig.29). A theatre is known from aerial survey

174

Vici in Roman Gaul

(site:La Fosse du Merle). The buildings were aligned to a street grid near the monumental core. The settlement to the north had evidence of agricultural activty and food processing, butno formal street system. This was a frontier site of the Camutes and Bituriges Cubi. Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth century. A Carolingian cemetery was evidence of settlement during the Middle Ages. The main function of the site was religious, but it also probably served as a regional centre and market.

situated east of the forum and were in use from the first to the third century, with some reconstruction and occupation in the fourth century. Three of the rooms in the baths were covered with mosaics, totalling a surface area of 260 square meters. These were dated to the late Antonine period. Later the site served as a Carolingian cemetery. Little is known about the other public buildings. Observations: The site is very rich in small finds including imported samian ware, clay figurines, bronze statuettes, fragments of stone sculptures and numerous coins.

Public buildings: The forum (100x70m) was surrounded by forty eight small rooms (shops), lining three of its sides. The fourth side was closed off by a rectangular basilica ending in an apse at each of its short sides. The baths were

References: Gallia 30, 1972:330-331; 32, 1974:315; 36, 1976:283; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:29-30; 106-110;

Fig. 29 Verdes, plan of the buildings of the sanctuary (after Dalmain 1988, in CAG 41 - Loir-et-Cher 1988: 106) Key to relevant symbols: a= general plan of the layout of the sanctuary withfornm, civic basilica, baths (thermes) and shops (boutiques). b = detail of the plan above, 1 = basilica, 2 = fornm, 3 = palestra, 4 = baths (thermes), 5 = Roman road from Chartres to Blois, popularly called "Chemin de Cesar".

175

Monica Rorison

G5.30

Vienne-en-Val (Loiret)

'------ I

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 48 N 2 08 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes

LES

SASLl;S

Ir

225

227

Summary: The location was in the Loire valley on a Roman road from Autun to Orleans. Very little is known of the sanctuary and settlement. There was evidence of buildings in the centre of the modern town associated with finds of samian ware and coins ranging from the first to the second century. Monumental sculptures were discovered under the foundations of the parish church, which dates from the sixth century. A Merovingian coin found here bore the legend, Vienna Vico (Debal 1976:101). Occupation of the site was dated from the first to the third century. It was settled during the Merovingian period. It possibly had a religious function and might have served as a road station.

0

Fig. 30 Villeneuve-sur-Cher, plan of the site (after J. Holmgren in Gallia 42, 1984:291).

Inscriptions: A religious dedication was found on the base of a Jupiter monument, mentioning a curia of Ludna (ILTG, No.311). Observations: The sculpture representing Jupiter on horseback was part of a 'four divinity stone'. Other sculptures represented Minerva, a person wearing a tore and a fawn. The work was of high artistic quality, carved in limestone and dated from the second to the third century. References: Gallia 28, 1969:256-9; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:69-73; Debal 1976:101-110;

G 5.31

50m

The plan shows the buildings of the vicus aligned along the Roman road. The river Cher is shown south of the site.

G 5.32

Appendix of 17 'further posible sites'

Baudreville (Eure-et-Loir) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 20 N 1 54 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes

Villeneuve-sur-Cher (Cher)

Circ.: Centre Cords.: 47 02 N 2 13 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Sens to Chartres and about 30km south-east of Chartres. A fanum and foundations of buildings were discovered along the Roman road (site: La Mone). References: Gallia 30, 1972:315-316; 32, 1974:299; CAG 28, L'Eure et Loir, 1994:252-3;

Summary: The location was on a minor Roman road leading from Bourges to the river Cher (distance: 14km). It was probably a river port for Bourges. Two small temples, two large villas and buildings representing workshops and dwellings are known. These were aligned along the minor road (Fig.30). There was evidence of iron and bronze working, as well as pottery production (domestic ware), as well as trade in samian ware from southern, central and eastern Gaul, including the Rhineland and the region of Argonne. In 1855 Gallo-Roman boat, hollowed out from an oak trunk was found in the river sand. Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth century. The site was not occupied again. The function of the vicus was mainly commercial with some workshop activity.

Briare (Loiret) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 38 N 2 44 E Latin name: BRIVODURUM Territory: Carnutes Summary: The location was on the right bank of the Loire, where the major Roman road from Autun to Orleans crossed a tributary of the Loire via a bridge. It is known as a road station from the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:317; 1983:51). Foundations of buildings and the remains of three bath establishments with evidence of sculpture, marble decoration, as well as painted plaster have been

References: Gallia 42, 1984:290-1; Leday 1980:313-15; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:185-9;

176

Vici in Roman Gaul

found. There was some evidence of weaving activity. The cemetery produced finds ranging in date from the first to the fourth century. A Merovingian coin with the legend BRIODRO, might refer to the site. References: CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:42; 46-48

and a quern). Finds dated occupation from the first to the fourth century. References: Gallia 43, 1985:339-340; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:42; 63;

Chateaudun (Eure-et-Loir) Dreux (Eure-et-Loir) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 05 N 1 20 E Latin name: DUNUM Territory: Carnutes

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 44 N 1 22 E Latin name: DUROCASSES Territory: Camutes

Summary: The location was on the left bank of the little Loir, about 40km south-east of Chartres. According to Moreau it was known as a castrum and pagus-capital during the early Middle Ages (Moreau 1972:329; 1983:70). The vicus was preceded by a Late La Tene settlement on a spur, dominating the Loir, where a ford aided the river crossing. The modem town has produced evidence of settlement throughout the Roman period and into the early Middle Ages. One cemetery is known.

Summary: The location of the site was on a spur near the Roman road from Chartres to Evreux, about 40km north of Chartres, where a tributary of the Eure is crossed. It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. and Peut. Tab. and the Latin name occurs on a Merovingian coin (Moreau 1972:329; 1983:94). References: Gallia 24, 1966:239; CAG 28, L'Eure-et-Loir, 1994:231-3

References: Gallia 42, 1984:301-302; CAG 28, L'Eure etLoir, 1994:194-9;

Freteval (Loir-et-Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 53 N 1 13 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Turones

Crottes-en-Pithiverais (Loiret) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 07 N 2 04 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes

Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Orleans to Le Mans. It was probably a sanctuary (temple and baths), associated with a spring and was partially excavated in 1964/5 (site: La Tour de Grisset). Little is known of a settlement.

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Orleans to Chartres (site: Hautes des Bazoches). Finds of coins, pottery and tiles provided some evidence of occupation from the first to the fifth century and into the Merovingian period.

References: Gallia 24, 1966:254-6; 43, 1985:324; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:112-13;

References: Gallia 32, 1974:301; 43, 1985:339; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:195-6;

Levet (Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 56 N 2 25 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Dampierre-en-Burly (Loiret) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 46 N 2 31 E Latin name: BELCA Territory: Carnutes

Summary: The location was about 18km south of Bourges. The site was dispersed over a wide area and included several villas, a temple with enclosure, tile potteries and a small settlement by the Roman road from Bourges to Drevant. Occupation was dated from the first to the seventh century.

Summary: The location was in the Loire valley on the major Roman road from Orleans to Autun and about 22km north-west of Briare (section G 5.32 above). It is known as a road station from the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:314). Foundations of buildings have been found and evidence of workshop activity (weaving loom weights, stone crucibles

References: Gallia 42, 1984:283-4; CAG 18,Le Cher, 1992:239-45;

177

Monica Rorison

Merouville (Eure-et-Loir)

References: CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:29; 45-9;

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 18 N 1 54 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes (?)

Suevres (Loir-et-Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 40 N 1 28 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes

Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Chartres to Sens and at a distance of about 5km from Baudreville another 'further possible site' (section G 5.32 above). Foundations of buildings and a fanum have been discovered by the Roman road. Occupation was probably from the first to the fourth century.

Summary: The location was on the right bank of the Loire and the Roman road from Orleans to Blois. It was a water sanctuary with at least three sacred springs used in the Gallo-Roman period, one of them later dedicated to StMartin. The baths, an aqueduct and a ritual pool with its spring are known. The remains of the baths were formerly known as a villa (site: Chatelliers). Two inscriptions of the first century dedicated to Apollo by a certain 'Cosmis, daughter ofLucanus', are known (CIL XIII, 3073-3074).

References: Gallia 30, 1972:316; 34, 1976:315; 36, 1978:269; 38, 1980:320-1; 42, 1984:305; Jalmain 1976:73-75; CAG 28, LEure-et-Loir, 1994:25967;

References: Gallia 36: 1978:283; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:29; 76-7;

Neuvy-en-Sullias (Loiret) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 48 N 2 15 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes

Thaumiers (Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 49 N 2 39 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Summary: The location was in the Loire valley at about 9 km east of Vienne-en-Val and on the same Roman road from Orleans to Sancerre (section G 5.30). A treasure of bronze sculpture was found here including a statue on horseback inscribed with a dedication to a possible divinity, RUDIOBUS. The inscription also mentioned a curia of CASSICIATE, which is unknown to us (CIL XIII, 3071). The medieval settlement was known as NOVUS VICUS (Debal 1976:101).

Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Bourges to Bourbon-L'Archambault (Allier). It was a sanctuary with theatre discovered by aerial survey (site: La Garenne ). Two temples are known. The theatre was of modest size (diameter: 55m).

References: Gallia 28, 1969:259; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:66-8;

Referrences: Gallia 42, 1984:289; Leday 1980:289; CAG 18, Le Cher, 1992:158-9;

Thesee (Loir-et-Cher)

Soings-en-Sologne (Loir-et-Cher) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 25 N 1 31 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Camutes

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 47 20 N 1 19 E Latin name: TASCIACA Territory: Bituriges Cubi

Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Blois to Gievres. It was situated by the largest lake of the region and was possibly a frontier site of the Camutes and Bituriges Cubi. A fanum and a large cemetery are known. There was some evidence of Late La Tene occupation and continuation into the Roman period from the first to the fourth century.

Summary: The location was on the right bank of the river Cher by the major Roman road from Bourges to Tours. It is known as a road station from the Peut. Tab. and the Latin name occurred on a Merovingian coin (Moreau 1972:363; 1983:250). The remains consisted of three buildings, one of them measuring 40x14.70m and all of them surrounded by an enclosure. They have been interpreted as a fortified road station (mansio). On the opposite side of the river was

178

Vici in Roman Gaul

the vicus of Pouille, connected to Thesee by a ford (section G 5.24). References: Gallia 24, 1966:253; 26, 1968:338-9; CAG 41, Le Loir-et-Cher, 1988:28; 57-8;

Vrigny (Loiret) Circ.: Centre Coords.: 48 05 N 214 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Carnutes or Senones

Vendoeuvres-en-Brenne (Indre)

Summary: The location is near the northern edge of the forest of Orleans and about 10km south of Pithiviers-leVieil (section G 5.23). It was a pottery production centre. Kilns for bricks, tiles and domestic pottery have been discovered. The production was dated from the second half of the third century to the fourth and fifth century.

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 48 N 1 21 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Bituriges Cubi Summary: The location was in an area of forest and lakes about 24km west ofDeols (section G 5.13). It was the site of a sanctuary which is virtually unknown to us, but its buildings (a basilica, offices (diribitoria), forum and porticos leading to the baths), are mentioned in an inscription found here (CIL XIII, 11151). It also mentions the vicani and a duumvir, who was also twice flamen and whose name ends with 'R'. Leday suggested this might be the same donor who dedicated at Neris: Lucius Julius Equester (CIL. XIII, 1376, 1377; Leday 1980:285). Other finds of architectural elements and statues, as well as inscriptions were made here (CIL XIII, 1320).

References: Gallia 28, 1969:255; 30, 1972:319; 32, 1974:306-7; CAG 45, Le Loiret, 1988:192;

Yzeures-sur-Creuse (Indre-et-Loire)

Circ.: Centre Coords.: 46 47 N O 52 E Latin name: ICIODURUM (?) Territory:Turones Summary: The location of the site is on the right bank of the Creuse. The Latin name is known from a sixth century document and it was probably a rural parish of the fifth century (Moreau, 1972:338; 1983:280). There was some evidence of a sanctuary and settlement. A magnificent Jupiter monument from the third century was found here, as well as a temple dedication. The inscription, broken into three parts, was a dedication to Minerva and the emperors L.Verus and Marcus Aurelius (AD 161-180; CIL XIII, 3075). References: CAG 37, Indre-et-Loire, 1988:29-30;

References: Mangin and Tassaux 1990:481; Picard, 1970:188; CAG 36, L'Indre, 1992:106-7;

179

Franche-Comte Index of 19 vici and 3 'further possible sites' Section

Site

Page

G6.1

Arlay (Jura)

182

G6.2

Chassey-les-Montbozon (Haute-Saone)

G6.3

Dammartin (Jura)

182

G6.4

Domblans (Jura)

184

G6.5

Equevillon (Jura)

184

G6.6

Grozon (Jura)

185

G6.7

Lons-le-Saunier (Jura)

186

G6.8

Luxeuil (Haute-Saone)

186

G6.9

Luxiol (Doubs)

187

182

G6.10

Mandeure (Doubs)

187

G 6.11

Mantoche (Haute-Saone)

189

G6.12

Mathay (Jura)

189

G6.13

Offemont (Terr. de Belfort)

190

G6.14

Pontarlier (Doubs)

190

G6.15

Saint-Aubin (Jura)

192

G6.16

Saint-Germain-en-Montagn (Jura)

192

G6.17

Seveux (Haute-Saone)

192

G 6.18

Villards d'Heria (Jura)

194

G6.19

Vincelles (Jura)

194

Appendix of 'further possible sites':

G6.20

Corre (Haute-Saone)

194

Port-sur-Saone (Haute-Saone)

194

Rocheford-sur-Nenon (Jura)

195

180

Vici in Roman Gaul

FRANCHE-COMTE

MAP VI

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C.o..-f'"a.

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.

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I

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Distribution of vici

[i]

''

-

~

( scale 1 : 2 000 000 )

civitas - capital

•

vicus

♦

'further possible site'

--~ ' boundary of circor,scription

181

f-

Monica Rorison

G 6.1

Arlay (Jura

had colonnade4s surrounding a central courtyard with pool. The building dated to the second century. The vicus covered 50ha and the surroundings were intensively farmed. Five villas have been found within a radius of 15km. There was evidence of a Late La Tene settlement, followed by occupation during the Augustan period. The construction of the baths was dated to the second half of the first century. Generally, occupation was in evidence until the mid-third century and continued into the mid-fifth century and beyond into the Merovingian period. The vicus functioned as a rural centre and road station. It also had a religious function suggested by the baths complex.

Circ.: Franche-Comte) Coords.: 46 46 N 5 32 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Sequani Summary: The location was at a crossroads of Roman routes and an important river crossing of the Seille. A Roman bridge probably preceded the medieval and modern bridges (site: Saint-Vincent). Here was also the main site of the vicus, but there was evidence of other occupation nearby (plan: Odouze 1992:28). Little is known of the settlement, but six mosaics have been found dispersed in the modern village, as well as a ritual pool and spring, called the triclinium fountain of Arlay. Two cemeteries produced finds of inscribed funerary stelae. The modern chateau was possibly preceded by a fortified Gallo-Roman structure in use during the Late Empire and associated with Roman coins. The monetary series underlined the use of these fortifications as a refuge at insecure times. The settlement at Saint-Vincent covered 10-12ha and was surrounded by three villas within a radius of 1km. Finds of Gallic coins witness to some occupation during the Late La Tene period. Occupation of the vicus was dated from the first to the fourth century. It was settled again from the sixth to the eighth century. It functioned as a rural centre in a fertile agricultural region and served traffic and transport at a road junction.

References: Barbet and Mangin 1992:63-64 b; 1994:112-3;

G6.3

Circ.: Franche-Comte Coords.: 47 15 N 5 32 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Sequani Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Besan9on to Dijon via Pontailler (Circonscription Bourgogne). It was situated about 2km south-west of an important ford across the river Ognon (Fig. 31). It was probably a frontier site of the Sequani and the Lingones. A regular street grid was discovered, although some buildings show lack of alignment to it (Fig. 3 la, thermes). There was evidence for workshops, particularly for smelting and forging iron. Pottery kilns were situated near the ford and a quarry for building stone was in use at Marpain (Fig. 31b ). The river was probably navigable and used for shipping stone and pottery. The settlement had a well built water supply and a cemetery was situated south-west of it. A temple and baths probably existed, but have not yet been found with any certainty. The building marked thermes, near the centre of the vicus might have been a villa (Fig.3 la). The vicus covered about 30ha and the surroundings were intensively farmed. One villa was found within a radius of 1km and five within a radius of 1-5km. Occupation was dated from the first to the fourth century. Gallic coins suggested Late La Tene use of the site. The function was commercial and serving traffic and transport on land and river routes. It was also a production and rural centre.

Observations: Possibly tolls were exacted at this point on a road issuing from the Jura mountains References: Gallia 32, 1974:411; Odouze 1992:26-9; 1994:96-7;

G 6.2

Dammartin (Jura)

Chassey-les-Montbozon (Haute-Saone)

Circ.: Franche-Comte Coords.: 47 31 N 6 20 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Sequani Summary: The location was at a junction of Roman roads from Luxeuil, Offemont and Besarn;on. It was situated on the right bank of the Ognon, where the river was crossed. Two groups of remains are known; one around a palaeochristian church and Merovingian cemetery, the other near the junction of the Roman roads (plan: Barbet and Mangin 1992:64b). There was evidence of a main street with aqueduct and drainage channel. Workshops lined the street with evidence of iron and bronze working. A workshop for pottery production (coarse ware), was situated on one of the major roads leaving the vicus. Two temples have been discovered, as well as the remains of another public building of unknown function. An important public building, covering about Iha, consisted of the baths which

Observations: Roman imperial coins ranged from the reign of Augustus to Valens (AD 364-378). References: Gallia 28, 1970:359; 40, 1982:378; 388; Bonvalot 1992:30-32; 1994:97-9; ManginM. etal, 1986:108-119;

182

Vici in Roman Gaul

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Monica Rorison

G7.1

Ahun (Creuse)

G7.2

Blond (Haute-Vienne)

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 05 N 2 03 E Latin name: ACITODUNUM Territory: Lemovices

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 03 N 1 01 E Latin name: BLATOMAGUS (?) Territory: Lemovices

Summary: The location was on the major Roman road from Lyon to Saintes at the river crossing of the Creuse. It is known as a road station between Clermont (A UGUSTONEMETUM) and Limoges (AUGUSTORITUM) from the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:303; 1983:4). Another road led from here to Poitiers via Bridiers (see: La Souterraine G 7.6 below). Little is known of the settlement which started to develop on the left bank of the Creuse (site: Camp de Cesar). Pits with Gallo-Roman debris, including coins of the reign of Hadrian and Antoninus Pius, have been found in the modem town. At least two cemeteries are known. One of them was rich in funerary stelae and inscriptions (CAG 23, 189:46). A cremation cemetery was in use until late in the second century (site: La Chezotte). The settlement is estimated to have covered 60ha. The region was rich in mineral resources (coal, iron, lead and silver). One villa is known within a radius of 1-5km (site: Massenon). There was evidence of Late La Tene occupation (non-wheel turned pottery, wine amphorae type: Dressel IA, site: Camp de Cesar). The vicus developed from the Tiberian period onwards and occupation lasted into the fourth century. It functioned as a road station on a major road and was probably a market for the surrounding region.

Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Limoges to Poitiers. The Latin name is known from the Merovingian period, when it occurred on a coin (Moreau 1983:42). Very little is known of the settlement. The remains of a tin processing area, covering 10ha, with open ditches to treat the ore bearing mineral, was discovered 1km north of the modem village (site: Bois de Tourette). There were remains of walls, building stone, bricks and tiles. A surrounding area covering about 80ha in the same woodland, had evidence of tin extraction. Gold was probably also found Dating of occupation was from the first to the third century. The vicus probably functioned as an industrial and commercial site on a major road. Observations: A section of the Roman road from Limoges to Poitiers has been excavated. It was about 6m wide between drainage ditches (Gallia 43, 1985:423). The traces of this road were observed for 1km north of the modem village, where the vicus was situated. It is likely that various metals mined in the region, e.g. tin, lead and possibly gold, were traded along this route (Desbordes 1977:236-7). Finds included a heavy granite grinding mill for crushing ore bearing rocks and a decorated tin spindle References: Gallia 35, 1977:439-40; 43, 1985:423; CAG 87, Haute-Vienne, 1993:50-1; Desbordes 1977:22142;

Inscriptions: Three inscribed milestones have been found (CIL XIII, 8911, 8911a, 8912). One dated from the reign of Gordian III (AD 238-44). It records the distance to Limoges and PRAETOR/UM (possibly at Saint-Goussaud), in leugae (No.8911). The other two (Nos.8911a, 8912), which were found near Ahun, dated from the reign of Gallienus (AD 253-68) and Valerian (AD 253-59/60). These have been associated with a route which led from Ahun to Limoges or Bordeaux (see: 'Observations' below). Nine memorial or funerary inscriptions were found (CIL XIII, 1427-35). Observations: Near the modem town the remains of a Roman road are known (site: Bois d' Ahun). Excavation showed that it had been built in one go during the midthird century and was in use during the fourth century. The section excavated had a width of 4.50m between low stone walls, which marked the edge of the road ( Gallia 41, 1983:437). It has been suggested that this was part ofa link road connecting Ahun with the major road to Limoges, or Bordeaux. The two milestones (CIL XIII, 891 la, 8912), mentioned above in 'Inscriptions', are associated with this link road (Gallia 39, 1981:460-1). References: Gallia 33, 1975:443; 35, 1977:431; 37, 1979:484; 39, 1981:460-1; 41, 1983:436-7; Gallia-Informations 1987-8, 1: 177; CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:45-50; Desbordes 1977:221-42;

G 7.3

Brive (Correze)

Circ. :Limousin Coords.: 45 09 N 1 32 E Latin name: VICUS BRIVA or BRIVA CURRETIA Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on the left bank of the Correze, where two important Roman roads crossed. One led in a north - south direction from Limoges to Toulouse and the other in an east - west direction from Clermont to Perigueux or Bordeaux (Fig. 37). The road from Limoges to Toulouse crossed the river here via a ford. A bridge is likely to have existed from the Flavian period onwards. The Latin place name is known from the writings of Gregory of Tours (Hist. F. X, 31). Little is known of the settlement, which developed on the Puy-Saint-Pierre and spread onto the Puy-Saint-Martin (Fig.37). There was evidence of pottery production; at first manufacturing domestic pottery and clay figurines. Production of decorated samian ware and tiles started in the second century. A cemetery is known. An important inscription, dating from the second century was interpreted as evidence of a professional or funerary association (see

198

Vici in Roman Gaul

'Inscriptions'). The vicus developed from the mid-first century onwards. Pottery manufacture started towards the end of the first century. It declined and was finally abandoned during the third century. The last coin of the coin series found at the potteries on the site Puy-SaintPierre, dated from the reign of Tetricus (AD 270-3). However, there was evidence of the vicus surviving into the fifth century and it was an important settlement during the Merovingian period. At that time a mint was located here (coins with the legend: BRIV A). The function of the vicus was mainly commercial and it was a production centre for pottery. During the Late Empire it had a religious function, thanks to a Christian basilica erected here, dedicated to the Spanish Saint-Martin, who suffered martyrdom at Brive in the fifth century (Greg. of Tours, Hist. F. X, 31).

Inscriptions: The fragmented remains of a religious dedication were found in 1888 (site: Eglise Saint-Martin). The donor, a person called CALENUS and presumably a native citizen of peregrin status, belonged to, or represented a collegium (CIL XIII, 1453). Observations: It is claimed that the Roman bridge was destroyed when the medieval one was built in 1406. The bases of two pillars supporting the Roman bridge were found near the river banks, when a new bridge was built in 1934 (site: Pont du Buy). The Roman bridge was estimated to have had at least five arches (CAG 19, Correze, 1992:75). References: Gallia 29, 1971:311; 37, 1979:479; 39, 1981:457-8; 43, 1985:417; Gallia-Informations, 198788, 1: 166-8; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:70-6; Desbordes and Moser 1990:58-61; Moreau 1972:317; 1983:53;

Fig. 37 Brive, plan of the site and road network (after Desbordes and Moser 1990: 60) The shaded areas mark the high ground which is not affected by flooding. Key to the symbols: ._ ia. = Pre-Roman road, • • $ = Gallo-Roman road, iall!lmlllll& = medieval road

199

Monica Rorison

G 7.4

Chateau - Chervix (Haute-Vienne)

Gallia 31, 1973:425). Decoration was luxurious and included statuary of marble and limestone. The use of the baths dated from the Augustan period to around AD 400. Finds included coins of Augustus, Tiberius, Claudius, Nero and the series continued to the reign of Valens (AD 364-78). There was evidence of destruction during the second half of the third century. However, the western part of the building seems to have been taken into use again during the early fourth century (finds of coins of Constantine and his successors). The covered walkway leading from the baths to the temple was about 600m long and 6.70m wide. It consisted of two parallel walls and was probably surmounted by a triangular roof It was lit by glass windows. Finds included a fine sculpted granite head in Celtic style and a bronze statuette of Aesculapius (height 7.8cm). The aqueduct brought drinking water from a distance of 17km to the spa. It was constructed from hollowed out granite blocks, each measuring 2.45m in length. Flat slabs covered the water channel, which was buried in the ground. References: Gallia 31, 1973:424-6; 33, 1975:443-4; CAG 23, Creuse, 1989:110-13; Lintz 1990:90-6; Grenier 1960:417-23;

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 36 N 1 21 E Latin name: CARO VICUS (?) Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location is about 26km south of Limoges. The Roman road network is not well known in this region. The Latin place name occurred on a Merovingian coin found here (Desbordes 1977:237). Gallo-Roman occupation debris was found covering an area of about 40ha. Pottery of the first and second century was plentiful. One cellar of a house dating from the fourth to the sixth century has been excavated. The vicus has been dated to the first and second century. The region was rich in ores, some of them containing precious metals and the vicus might have been a processing and trading centre for copper, tin and gold. References: Gallia 35, 1977:440-1; 1977:221-42; CAG 87, Haute Vienne, 1993:170-2;

G 7.5

Desbordes

Evaux (Creuse)

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 10 N 2 29 E Latin name: IVAONUM or VICUS EVA UNUM Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was at a crossroads of three Roman routes; 1) Autun to Limoges via Neris, 2) ToulxSte.-Croix to Clermont, 3) Bourges to Eygurande (Correze), or Clermont (Fig.38). However , Evaux flourished mainly due to the existence of hot springs and the place name is derived from the name of their divinity, IVAOS, known from an inscription (CIL XIII, 1368). There is further evidence of the Latin place name from early medieval literature and coins of the Merovingian period (Moreau 1972:331; 1983: 100).A temple now succeeded by a church, the baths, a covered gallery linking the two, an aqueduct and two cemeteries are known (Fig.38). The settlement was not situated in the narrow valley of the springs, but at a distance of about 600m to the south. A villa is known at a distance of about 2.5km (site:Grandes-Pieces). Occupation lasted from the mid-first to the fourth century. There was probably continuation into the Merovingian period. The function of the vicus was mainly religious. It was a spa and cult centre. Inscriptions: A religious dedication to the divinity of the springs was found engraved on a bronze dish in the ruins of the Gallo-Roman baths (CIL XIII, 1368). Public buildings: The baths were built on a platform of concrete through which the springs emerged via about forty pits. Rooms were arranged around a rectangular court with the pools occupying the north wing (plan:

200

Vici in Roman Gaul

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201

Monica Rorison

G7.6

La Souterraine (Creuse)

little is known of the settlement. One building with evidence for workshop activity has been excavated and further foundations of buildings exist in the vicinity. There was some evidence of Late La Tene occupation of the sanctuary. It was in use until the end of the fourth or the beginning of the fifth century. The function was mainly religious.

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 14 N 1 29 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Limoges to Bourges and near a route from Ahun to Poitiers. Two sites with evidence of occupation are known; firstly a sanctuary and settlement 3km south-east of the modem village (site: Bridiers), and secondly the baths, or a water sanctuary situated about 1km north of it (site: Rosaraie ). Very little is known of the settlement, but occupation debris covered an area of about 40ha (plan, CAG 23,1989:151). The sanctuary is supposed to have been dedicated to Apollo. Finds included a number of monumental limestone sculptures, architectural ornament and votive offerings. Several cemeteries are known. The site of the baths produced evidence of a circular pool and a large structure with twelve rooms covering 2000 square metres. Nineteen coins found at this site ranged from the reign of Claudius II (AD 268-70) to Constantine I (AD 306-37). There was evidence of Late La Tene occupation. The vicus was in evidence from the first to the fourth century. Coin finds ranged from the reign of Augustus to Constantine I. The vicus functioned as a cult centre on a major road.

References: Gallia 25, 1967:299-300; 27, 1969:318; 29, 1971:311-13; 31, 1973:428; 33, 1975:439; 35, 1977:429; CAG 16, Correze, 1981:43; 108-11; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:64-7;

G7.8

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 02 N 1 35 E Latin name: PRAETORIUM (?) Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on the major Roman road from Clermont to Limoges and at the junction with a minor road to Poitiers. Three minor roads led from here to La Souterraine (G 7.6), Tintignac (G 7.10) and Aigurande (Creuse) northeast of Saint-Goussaud. According to Moreau this was the PRAETORIUM of the Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:353; 1983:221). However, this has been questioned (Marquaire, unpublished). A more recently suggested site is Jabreillesles-Bordes (Haute-Vienne), where so far only enclosures have been found (CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:36). The remains of a sanctuary with theatre are situated on a hill, Mont Jouer (plan: Grenier 1960:580). The sanctuary consisted of a small theatre of classical type (diameter: 30m), two temples surrounded by an enclosure and some ancilliary buildings. No settlement has been found. Occupation dated from the first half of the first century to the fourth century. The construction of the theatre dated from the reign of Claudius or Nero. The majority of coin finds dated from the second century. Cremation burials with associated stone recepticals have been found, as well as a great number of objects forged in iron, domestic pottery, Samian ware and clay figurines. The function of the vicus was religious. It was a hill sanctuary.

Inscriptions: Four religious or memorial inscriptions are known from CIL (CIL XIII, 1441a, 1441b, 1442, 1443). Observations: Statuary found here was of high quality, but the site has suffered from interference (Desbordes 1977:232). Finds of Samian ware from La Graufesenque and Lezoux were plentiful and domestic pottery was represented in its full range of forms. Silver-, bronze-, and bone - styli were found. References: Gallia 33, 1975:444; 35, 1977:436-9; 43, 1985:421; CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:150-3;

G 7.7

Saint-Goussaud (Creuse)

Margerides (Correze)

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 27 N 2 24 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices

Inscriptions: A dedication to Jupiter and Pluto was found here (CIL XIII, 1449). Observations: The name of the hill, Mont Jouer, 1s probably derived from Iovis or Iovem (Jupiter). References: Gallia 25, 1967:300-1; 35, 1977:436; CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:36; 72-5; Grenier 1958:871; 1960:579-82;

Summary: The location was just off a minor Roman road leading to Limoges from south-east of the region of Limousin. There was evidence of a sanctuary consisting of three temples of the fanum type, several shrines and ancilliary buildings surrounded by an enclosure (site: Les Pieces Grandes; plan: CAG 19, Correze, 1992:64). The site of the sanctuary produced sculptures carved in volcanic stone and a bronze statuette of the Gallic divinity of Cemunnos (CAG 16, 1981: Pl.IV). The sanctuary was dated to the middle of the first century. There were some buildings of unknown function outside the enclosure. Very

202

Vici in Roman Gaul

G7.9

Saint-Merd (Correze)

Occupation has been dated from the first to the fourth century. An analysis iofthe coin finds (36 coins) suggested that apart from an early, probably Augustan cult shrine at the "Boutiques", the public monuments dated from the second century. The function was probably mainly religious.

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 38 N 2 03 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was off the major Roman road network, about 66km south-east of the civitas-capital, Limoges. A sanctuary is known, but a settlement has not been found yet. A temple, built in the classical GrecoRoman style and a further shrine interpreted as a mausoleum, were surrounded by an enclosure (plan: Gallia 35, 1977:430). Nearby, at a distance of 300m to the east, were the remains of a large building, variously interpreted as a villa or a bath complex (site: Bae-des-Cars; plan: Gallia 35, 1977:432). The area is a region of easily cultivated soils on the plateau of Millevache (altitude: 900m), and many villas have been discovered, although their number is not recorded. There was some evidence at the modem village of Gallo-Roman occupation (burials, coins, pottery and tiles). Dating of the buildings was from the second to the third century, when disruption occurred. The site was probably abandoned during the third century. The function was religious.

Inscriptions: A fragmented marble inscription was found at the site of the ancilliary building (Fig.39, 'A' - boutiques; CIL XIII, 1454, 1455). Public buildings: The construction of the theatre has not been dated (diameter: 85m, depth: 67.50m). Excavations of the site were probably incomplete and the plan made in 1884 lacks detail (CAG 16, Correze, 1981:81). Coins found in the theatre dated from the reign of Tetricus, Constantine I and IL A temple was attached to the theatre cutting across the top of the cavea (Fig.39, 'C'). The interior contained twelve niches, ten of them round and two rectangular. These niches, probably for statuary of divinities, were symmetrically arranged on both sides of a little room (dimensions: 1lx9m). This semicircular temple had two rectangular rooms at each end, possibly points of access. East of the theatre-temple was a further sanctuary of unusual shape (Fig. 39, 'B'). It consisted ofa 47m long gallery with niches for statuary, a central entrance on the south side and two rectangular rooms providing further access, one at each end. An ancilliary building (dimensions: 56x43m) consisted of two parts; the western part had two grain mills mounted on a base and accommodated three cellars, the eastern part consisted of a court surrounded by porticos (Fig.39, 'A'). The function of this building might have been commercial. Small finds included a silver statuette representing a warrior, ornaments in bronze, a stylus, pottery and coins (1 as of Nimes, 1 coin of Hadrian, 1 denarius of Antoninus Pius). The site of these public buildings produced a number of sculptures, which are described by Esperandieu (1925, Nos.7022-7028). There is some doubt about the origin of some of the sculpted heads. References: CAG 16, Correze, 1981:78-82; CAG 19, Correze,1992:160-4; Grenier 1960:582-6;

Public buildings: The temple (dimensions: 11.30x8.30m) had an entrance at its east side and an apse opposite at its west end. The walls consisted of granite blocks, held together by iron clamps and the floor was paved with irregular slabs. The other shrine or mausoleum had an cremation burial at its centre embedded in the foundations. The tomb had been robbed at a time prior to the excavations of 1936. The large building 300m east of the sanctuary consisted of fifteen rooms arranged around a courtyard. It incorporated a monolith in the shape of a large oval vat (dimensions: 2.75x2.00m; Height: 1.75m). Six of the rooms were equipped with a hypocaust and one other room had a pool. Decoration was luxurious throughout with columns, marble and coloured limestone, mosaics and painted plaster. Coins dated from the second and third century. The building showed evidence of destruction during the third century. References: Gallia 33, 1975:441; 35, 1977:430-2; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:86-9; Grenier 1960:586-94;

G 7.10 Tintignac (Correze), commune: Naves Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 19 N 1 46 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on a major Roman road from Clermont to Perigueux. There was evidence of a linked theatre-temple, a further temple, and an ancilliary building (Fig.39). The excavations dated mainly from 1842, 1846-7 and some discoveries were made before 1842 (CAG 16, Correze, 1981:78-82). Nothing is known of the settlement.

203

Monica Rorison

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Fig. 39 Tintignac, plan of the sanctuary (after Lalande 1867 in CAG 19, La Correze 1992: 161). Key to the symbols: A = workshops, B = temple, C = temple linked to the theatre, D = theatre

G 7.11 Toulx-Ste.-Croix (Creuse)

Merovingian coin found here with the caption: TULLO CASTRO. One temple of the fanum type has been discovered. During the Late Empire it was turned into a baptismal chapel. A cemetery is known which was in use during the Gallo Roman and Frankish period. Very little else is known of the sanctuary and settlement, which is now covered by the modem town. Small finds dated mainly from the second century. Monumental sculpture included a relief of Mercury and three lions carved in granite. The lions are still to be found in front of the parish church of the modem town. Occupation can not be dated with any certainty, but the vicus seems to have continued

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 17 N 2 13 E Latin: TULL UM(?) Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on a hill, but two important Roman roads passed near it. The route Bourges - Limoges passed on the west side and a road from Evaux-les-Bains (G 7.5), in a north-west direction, passed on the south side of the hill. The Latin place name is known from a

204

Vici in Roman Gaul

at least from the second century into the late Empire and the Merovingian period. The function was probably mainly religious.

the pagus capital of the Uzerchais region (Moreau 1972:367). Gallo-Roman finds have been made in various parts of the modem town and these included an aqueduct. Column drums were found re-used to pave the entrance of the local abbey of Saint-Pierre, a foundation of the Carolingian period. Small finds included gold coins of the Late Empire, a small sculpted eagle in limestone, tiles and samian ware. The thirty six coins found during the beginning of this century ranged from the Augustan period to the reign of Constantine I. Dating of occupation and qualifying its function are not possible given the poor knowledge of the site. Observations: The foundations of a palaeo-christian structure dating from the fifth century have been found under the abbey church of Saint-Pierre (Gallia 43, 1985:420). References: CAG 16, Correze, 1981:88; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:186-7; Desbordes 1989:38;

Observations: A medieval document describes, how Saint Martial baptised 3600 men and women at TULLUM at the end of the third century (Vita prolixior sancti Martiali, Ms 529 A, Bibl. Nat. Paris; Gallia 1985:422). The baptismal chapel has been associated with Saint Martial. References: Gallia 43, 1985:422; CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:87-9;

G 7.12

Ussel (Correze)

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 33 N 2 19 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on the Roman road from Clermont to Perigueux at the river crossing of the Sarsonne. An important building, which might have had a public function was decorated with multi coloured stones of different shapes (site: La Chabanne-Bonnegue). Not much is known about the settlement which covered about 30ha and was situated in the south-eastern sector of the walled medieval town. A cemetery is known (site: Montplaisir). A fine monumental sculpture in granite of an eagle (height: 1.67m), is displayed in the town (CAG 16, 1981, Pl.VI). The vicus was preceded by a promontory fort of the Late La Tene period (Collis 1975:191). There was evidence of occupation from the first to the third century. During the third century occupation became reduced and very few finds provided evidence for the vicus in the fourth century. The function was probably to serve traffic and transport on an important route.

G 7.14 Appendix of'furtherpossible

Argentat (Correze) Circ. :Limousin Coords.: 45 06 N 1 56 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on a major Roman route from Clermont to Perigueux at the river crossing of the Dordogne. It is dominated by the Puy du Tour, which was the site of a Late La Tene hill fort (Collis 1975:191). The Gallo Roman settlement developed at the foot of the hill and near the bridge or ford. References: CAG 16, Correze, 1981:72-3; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:50-2; Desbordes 1977:221-42;

Inscriptions: Four funerary epitaphs are known (CIL XIII, 1456-1459). Observations: Coin finds ranged from the Augustan period to the reign of Honorius (AD 395-423). These are preserved in two collections in the Museum at Brive (Correze). References: CAG 16, Correze, 1981:30; 114-17; CAG 19, Correze, 1992:175-8; Desbordes 1977:221-42;

G7.13

sites'.

Saint-Priest-d'Evaux (Creuse) Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 46 05 N 2 20 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Lemovices

Uzerche (Correze)

Summary: The location was at a cross-roads of minor Roman routes. One of them led probably from Ahun to Evaux-les-Bains. A cremation cemetery, in use during the second and third century, has produced over 130 burials since excavation began in 1971. The dominant form of burial was a simple pit (70 per cent), next in frequency were coffin or chest burials (16 per cent), a further 14 per cent of burials had an um holding the ashes m an individual pit (site: Louroux). References: Gallia Informations, 1987-1988, 1:186; CAG 23, La Creuse, 1989:114-16;

Circ.: Limousin Coords.: 45 25 N 1 35 E Latin name: USERCA (?) Territory: Lemovices Summary: The location was on a Roman road from Brive to Limoges. According to Moreau the Latin name is known from a Merovingian coin inscribed USERCA, and later documents of the ninth century (Moreau 1983:260). It was probably a rural parish of the fifth century and at one time

205

Lorraine 26 vici and 11 'further possible sites'

Section

Site

Page

Section

Site

Page

G 8.1

Baalon (Meuse)

208

G 8.24

Soulosse (Vosges)

224

G8.2

Bar-le-Due (Meuse)

209

G 8.25

Tarquimpol (Moselle)

224

G8.3

Bliesbruck (Moselle)

209

G 8.26

Yutz (Moselle)

226

G 8.4

Cocheren (Moselle)

211

G 8.5

Corny (Moselle)

211

G8.6

Deneuvre (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

212

G8.7

Dieulouard (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

212

G8.8

Florange-Daspich- Ebange (Moselle)

213

G8.9

Grand (Vosges)

G8.10 G 8.11

Appendix of 'further possible sites'

G8.27

Audun-le-Tiche (Moselle)

226

Chemery/Eincheville (Moselle)

226

Cutry (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

226

215

Delme (Moselle)

226

Hettange-Grande (Moselle)

217

Einville-au-Y ard (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

227

Laneuveville/La Madeleine (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

217 Escles (Vosges)

227

G 8.12

Liffol-le-Grand (Vosges)

217

Grostenquin (Moselle)

227

G 8.13

Marsal (Moselle)

217

Manheules (Meuse)

227

G 8.14

Nomeny (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

219

Plombieres-les-Bains (Vosges)

227

G 8.15

Pannes (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

219

Vionville (Moselle)

227

Vittel (Vosges)

228

G 8.16

Saint-Amand-sur-Omain (Meuse)

222

G 8.17

Saint-Die (Vosges)

222

G 8.18

Sainte-Ruffine (Moselle)

222

G 8.19

Saint-Laurent-sur Othain(Meuse)

223

G820

Sarrebourg (Moselle)

223

G 8.21

Senon (Meuse)

223

G8.22

Sion/Saxon-Sion (Meurthe-et- Moselle)

223

G8.23

Sorey-Saint-Martin (Meuse)

224

206

Vici in Roman Gaul

LORRAINE MAP VIII

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Monica Rorison

G 8.1

Baalon (Meuse)

have been discovered. Three coin hoards dated from AD 258-60. The vicus covered about 6ha and the surroundings were intensively farmed. Occupation started early in the Gallo-Roman period (AD 40-70). There was no evidence of a preceding Late La Tene settlement, but Gallic potin coins have been found. The vicus flourished until violent disruption occurred during the second half of the third century. It recovered quickly and prospered during the Constantinian period until further disruption in the middle of the fourth century. Abandonment came around the end of the fourth century. Its function was probably to serve as a local market for the surrounding agricultural area and it played a commercial role on a cross-roads. References: Gallia 44, 1986:289; Gallia Informations, 1989, 2: 98; Feller 1992:162; 1994:173;

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 49 29 N 5 15 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Treveri or Mediomatrici Summary: The location was near a major Roman road from Reims to Trier via Arlon, on the right bank of the river Meuse. There was evidence of a street grid. Houses and workshops faced the road via porticos (Fig. 40). Workshop activity included production of domestic pottery and bone objects. A funerary relief found at Baalon represented a shop scene showing two men examining a length of cloth (Esperandieu 1913, No.3785). One public building of unknown function, as well as three cemeteries

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208

Vici in Roman Gaul

G8.2

Bar-le-Due (Meuse)

one villa (other than Reinheim), was situated within a radius of 1km and a further 40 villas or farmsteads within 1-5km. There was no evidence of a Late La Tene settlement, but Gallic potin coins have been found. Occupation started early in the Gallo-Roman period (AD 30-40) and the settlement flourished until its destruction due to the Germanic invasions during the third quarter of the third century. This disruption was evidenced by archaeological finds and a break in the coin series. Rebuilding started soon during the last quarter of the third century. Recovery was marked during the Constantinian period and particularly evident in the workshop zone (east). The vicus was destroyed during the middle of the fifth century and soon afterwards abandoned. Its function was commercial; particularly as a production centre for the surrounding agricultural area. It was also a religious centre.

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 48 47 N 5 10 E Latin name: CATURICES Territory: Leuci Summary: The location was on a major Roman road from Reims to Metz, via Toul. It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. and Peut.Tab. (Moreau 1972:321; 1983:64). There was evidence of Gallo-Roman buildings with cellars and pits in the modem market town. Workshop activity included iron forging and bone working. Funerary monuments and burials suggested a cemetery. One of these was situated on the north slope of the river Omain (Cote Ste.-Catherine). Finds included imported pottery and Roman coins. The beginnings of the settlement dated from early in the Gallo-Roman period (AD 40-70). There was some evidence of Late La Tene activity thanks to finds of coins and pottery dating from the middle of the first century BC. However, the finds were not sufficient to suppose that there had been a preceding settlement. The vicus was in evidence until the second half of the third century, when it was abandoned. Its function was to serve traffic and transport on a major road.

Public buildings: The baths were erected towards the end of the first century. The first phase consisted of the usual sequence of: "caldarium, tepidarium, frigidarium". Entry was from the east, where a row of shops with porticos extended along the facade. Alterations and extensions followed until the building reached its most harmonious proportions during the early third century. After the destructions of the third century it was not used as a bathing establishment anymore. Settlement: Two workshop zones comprising 28 complete houses have been excavated so far (Fig.42). The earliest constructions in clay and timber with tiled roofs dated from AD 40-50 (workshop zone west). By the end of the century they were replaced by masonry construction, although some clay and timber walls persisted. By the middle of the third century and just before their destruction, all buildings had been extended and improved. The buildings of this quarter gave no indication of overall uniformity or ownership, although there was clearly an attempt at alignment to the principal road. Finds included kilns for the production of domestic pottery, baking ovens, stone weights, quems, imported pottery and Roman coins. Houses usually consisted of a rectangular room lying across the width of the house and facing the portico. This was adjoined by a square central room or court, with further rooms at the back, added later. These often had Terrazzo floors, or hypocausts and sometimes cellars. At House No.5 (Fig.42), a cellar at the front of the house was used for storage. This was suggested by a shoot, which permitted goods to be tipped from the outside through the ventilation window. Rooms were often decorated with painted plaster and one cellar still had the pillar base of a round table preserved in situ. Observations: The occupation of the villa of Reinheim started later than the vicus (AD 90). The relationship of villa and vicus was probably one of mutual benefit. The excavations are now part of the "Pare archeologique europeen de Bliesbruck-Reinheim". References: Gallia 32, 1974:351; 36, 1978:329-30; 38, 1980:412-14; 40, 1982:329-31; 42, 1984:348-52; 44, 1986:290-2; Gallia-Informations, 1989, 2:102-4; Petit and Schaub 1992:163-4; plan No.118; Petit and Schaub assisted by Brunella 1992; 1994:173-5;

Inscriptions: Three funerary inscriptions are known (CIL XIII, 4645, 4646, 4647). References: Massy 1992:186; plan No.138; 1994:193-4;

G 8.3

Bliesbruck (Moselle)

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 49 07 N 7 11 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Mediomatrici Summary: The location was off the major Roman road network, where a minor road crossed the small river Blies on the way to Schwarzenacker, a vicus situated c. 15km to the north-east. Excavation of the site started in the nineteen seventies and was intensified during the eighties, when the decision to create an archaeological culture park with the remains of the vicus at its core was taken. Two rows of buildings faced the main road with their short sides, via porticos (Fig. 41). The baths were set back, facing an open area accessible from the road. There was probably a public building of unknown function near the baths. Four sidestreets are known. Water supply was by aqueducts and wells. Near the baths and behind one of the rows of houses (workshop zone west), was an area of pits. Some of them were ritual pits. Workshop activity included production of domestic pottery, bronze working, iron smelting and forging, bone working and food processing (quems, baking ovens). Cemeteries are presumed to have occurred, but only a Merovingian and Carolingian burial ground has been found. The vicus covered 15-20ha. A large villa was situated about 500m to the north (Villa of Reinheim). The surroundings of Bliesbruck were intensively farmed and 209

Monica Rorison

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210

Vici in Roman Gaul

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20m

Fig. 42 Bliesbruck, workshop zone (west), buildings 1-6 (after Petit 1993: 140). The plan shows the foundations of the porticos east of the buildings and at building 5, the shoot giving access of goods to the cellar from the walkway under the porticos.

G 8.4

Cocheren (Moselle, site: Le Hempel)

of the first century. It flourished from AD 100 until destruction around 27 5. This disruption was reflected in the coin series. Further disruptions were dated to midfourth and early fifth century. The site was abandoned without resettlement (site: Le Hempel). Its function was commercial and it acted as a production centre for the agricultural surroundings.

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 49 09 N 6 51 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Mediomatrici Summary: The location was at the junction of two major Roman roads and not far from the river Sarre, which was probably navigable. Two roads from Worms and Brumath on the Rhine joined here and led to Metz. The settlement was aligned to a street grid. Two temples are known and there was some evidence of the baths and aqueducts. A number of funerary stelae suggested a cemetery and the site was rich in finds of monumental sculpture probably belonging to the public buildings (Esperandieu 1913, Nos.4444-,4472). Fortifications of the Late Empire are attested and so was a military presence, probably a garrison strengthened by mercenaries of Germanic origin. There was evidence of workshop activity (bronze and iron working, textile production, food processing). Coins were probably struck here during the Late Empire (examples from the reign of Tetricus and Claudius II). Agricultural tools have been found and the site was rich in minerals and building stone. The fortifications enclosed a site of 12ha, but the vicus probably covered l 5ha during the High Empire. The surroundings were intensively farmed and twenty five villas have been found within a radius of 15km. There were some finds of the Late La Tene period, but the settlement had its beginning during the first quarter

Inscriptions: Thirty inscriptions, most of them religious or memorial, are known (CIL XIII, 4471-95, 11459-62). One civic inscription was a dedication to the emperor Tiberius (4481). It mentioned a 'vicus' and possibly merchants (negotiatores). An inscribed oculist's set was found here (Gallia 44, 1986: 293). References: Georges-Leroy 1992:165-6, plan No.119; 1994:175-6;

G 8.5

Corny (Moselle)

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 49 02 N 6 04 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Leuci (?) Summary: The location was at the river crossing of the Moselle by a secondary Roman road, which linked this small river port to major roads from Reims to Metz and Trier. Remains of cellars and foundations of buildings have been discovered in the modem village. Finds of numerous 211

Monica Rorison

roof tiles stamped OPTATUS POLLAE SER, have suggested an important local tilery. A cemetery has produced Gallo-Roman funerary monuments (site: En Chalin). Finds included Roman coins. The vicus is estimated to have covered 10ha. The surroundings were intensively farmed and five villas were discovered within a radius of 1-Skrn. However, these were not huge estates as those discovered further away on the plateau. Occupation was continuous from the middle of the first century BC, when a Late La Tene settlement was in evidence, until the Medieval period. Its function was commercial as a small river road relay station. It was also a production centre for roof tiles.

two fine sandstone altars have been described in Gallia (40, 1982:338-340). Three inscriptions are known from CIL ( XIII, 4735-37). References: Gallia 30, 1972:349; 32, 1974:338; 34, 1976:353-6; 36, 1978:337-8; 38, 1980:423-5; 40, 1982:338-340; 42, 1984:360-2, 44, 1986:287; Moitrieux 1992:167-8, planNo.121; 1994:177-8;

G 8.7

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 48 51 N 6 04 E Latin name: SCARPONA or SCARPONNA Territory: Mediomatrici

Inscriptions: The inscription found on roof tiles was interpreted, 'Optatus, slave of Polla'. As one of the tiles was found in an excavation horizon of the beginning of the first century, production of these tiles has been dated from that period (Gallia 44, 1986:294-5). References: Gallia 44, 1986: 294-5; Jaquemot 1992:1667, plan No.120; 1994:176-7;

G8.6

Dieulouard (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

Summary: The location was at the junction of two major Roman roads (Reims-Metz; Langres-Trier). The site lies on an island formed by the Moselle (Fig.43). There was evidence of a bridge and river port. It is known as a road station from the Ant.It. and Peut.Tab. between Toul and Metz and it became a pagus capital during the early Middle Ages (Moreau 1972:359; 1983:234). It was a frontier site of the native Mediomatrici and the Leuci. There was evidence of a Late Empire castrum situated by the bridge and covering an area of Iha. Finds of foundations of buildings, cellars and porticos confirmed the presence of a settlement. Houses were decorated with painted plaster, mosaic floors and marble. Workshop activity included bronze, iron and lead forging, domestic pottery production and glass and enamel working. Three cemeteries are known. Funerary stelae represented artisans and civic occupations (Esperandieu 1915, Nos.4606, 4610, 4611, 4615). Coin finds were common and dated from the first to the fourth century. The vicus covered about lOha and one large villa was situated at a distance of 500m. Occupation started early in the Gallo-Roman period (AD 14-40). There was disruption early in the third century, but the vicus recovered and flourished until mid-fourth century. Occupation was reduced after that, but continued into the Middle Ages. This was an important road station with a commercial function. It played a minor, but strategic military role during the Late Empire.

Deneuvre (Meurthe-et-Moselle)

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 48 27 N 6 44 E Latin name: DONNABRIGA Territory: Leuci (?) Summary: The location was on the left bank of the Meurthe, where the river was crossed. The main land traffic moved along the Meurthe valley from the south-east to the north-west in the direction of Toul and Metz. According to Moreau it was known as DONNABRIGA, the site of a Hercules sanctuary (1972:328; 1983:89). The remains of a tower, the Tour-du-Bacha, was possibly part of a Late Empire castellum. The sanctuary dedicated to Hercules was a water sanctuary with a healing function attested by pools, altars, ex voto and inscriptions (site: Premier Silorit). About 300 coins were found and these ranged from the reign of Nero to Valentinian I (AD 36475). The settlement produced evidence of workshop activity (pottery and tile manufacture, stone quarrying and carving). There was a network of channels and pits to aid its water supply and drainage. A cemetery produced some funerary stelae, one of them depicting two men sawing a wooden plank (Esperandieu 1915, No.4702). The vicus covered Sha and one villa is known within a radius of 1Skrn. Occupation started during the middle of the first century AD. The creation of the sanctuary dated from the mid-second century. The vicus flourished, but suffered disruption during mid-second and late third century. It was abandoned at the beginning of the fifth century. The function was religious and commercial with some workshop activity.

Inscriptions: Most of the over fifty inscriptions were of a religious or memorial nature (CIL XIII, 4569-4622). The inscribed stones were usually found re-used in the walls of the castrum. Two inscribed milestones were discovered close to the bridge on the east bank of the Moselle. Their position marked the point where the Roman road passed from the civitas of the Leuci to that of the Mediomatrici. One of the milestones dated from the reign of Hadrian, the other was erected in honour of Postumus in 267 or 268 and gave the distance to Metz, the capital, as thirteen Gallic leugae (Gallia 28, 1970:286-7). References: Gallia 26, 1968:374-6; 28, 1970:283-7; 30, 1972:349-54; 32, 1974:338-9; 34, 1976:356; 36, 1978:335-6; Massy 1992:169-70, plan No.122; 1994:178-9;

Inscriptions: About twenty inscriptions are known. Most of them were religious dedications found at the sanctuary. One of them, dedicated to Hercules-Magisus, as well as 212

Vici in Roman Gaul

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G 8.8

Florange-Daspich-Ebange (Moselle)

included Roman coins. There were two cemeteries (Fig. 44). Funerary monuments have been found including a statue of the divinity Vulcan (Esperandieu 1913, Nos.4433-4). The vicus covered an area of about 12ha. Surrounding villas are not known. Dating of occupation is still incomplete. The potters were active from mid-first to mid-second century. The workshops for iron working started at the beginning of the second century and seemed to have taken over space in the pottery quarters, when these began to decline. Generally, occupation lasted from the first to the fourth century. There was resettlement during the Merovingian period. This was mainly a production centre.

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 49 20 N 6 07 E Latin name: Unknown Territory: Mediomatrici Summary: The location was on the major Roman road from Metz to Trier, which led along the left bank of the Moselle. The vicus was situated about 1km from the river. It extended on both sides of the road for about 700m, but did not exceed a width of 150m. (Fig. 44). Two distinct workshop zones were discovered, one a pottery centre for the production of domestic ware with twenty five kilns, the other one a group of buildings for iron smelting and forging. There was some evidence for textile production and during the fourth century for glass making. Finds

References: Gallia 28, 1970:298; 44, 1986:296; Legendre 1992:171-2; plan No.124; 1994:180-1;

213

Monica Rorison

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Key to the relevant symbols: A = various foundations, B = iron working, C = pottery kilns, D = buildings aligned to the road, E = cemeteries, 1 = major road Metz-Trier, 2 = side street

214

Vici in Roman Gaul

G 8.9

Grand (Vosges)

with disruption during the second half of the third century. It was settled during the Merovingian period. Its function was mainly religious. It acted as an important sanctuary for healing.

Circ.: Lorraine Coords.: 48 23 N 5 29 E Latin name: GRANNUM Territory: Leuci

Inscriptions: Four inscriptions dedicated to ApolloGrannus are known (ILTG 415, 416, 417; CIL XIII, 5940; Gallia 40, 1982:343). A fragment ofa monumental inscription has been found in the main corridor of the theatre (Gallia 26, 1968:398). At least twenty one inscriptions mostly of a religious or memorial nature are known from CIL (XIII, 5933-5955). An inscription on a small altar was interpreted as 'from the office of Lafices', followed by the signature of the stone mason (CIL XIII, 5943). Public buildings: The large theatre-amphitheatre (diameter: 149.50 m) was built at the beginning of the second century (site: La Roche). Monumental arcades were arranged along the central corridor, left and right of the oval arena (Gallia 36, 1978:339). It was probably out of use from around AD 175-80. The fortifications consisted of a curtain wall (width: 2.40m) and round towers set astride at intervals. Observations: Grand was not included in the Atlas prepared for the conference at Bitche/ Bliesbruck 1992 (Massy 1992:157). References: Gallia 24, 1966:297-305; 26, 1968:395-403; 28, 1970:304-13; 30, 1972:370-375; 32, 1974:363-5; 34, 1976:372-5; 36, 1978:339-44; 38, 1980:426-30; 40, 1982:340-3; 42, 1984:362-5; 44, 1986:305-7; Grenier 1958:904-9;

Summary: The location was off the major Roman road network. A secondary road connected the vicus via Liffolle-Grand (G 8.12) to the main road junction, Langres-Toul, Langres-Reims. It is known as an Apollo sanctuary from an inscription found here (ILTG 416). The Latin name is also known from a Merovingian coin (Moreau 1972:335; 1983:121). It was a frontier site of the native Leuci and the Lingones. There was evidence of a temple, basilica, a bath building and a public square. The settlement was aligned to a street grid. Late Empire fortifications in the form of a town wall are certain and beyond them was a large theatreamphitheatre (Fig. 45). One of the most remarkable features of Grand was its underground water supply, probably culminating in a central fountain. Grand was rich in finds like imported pottery and clay figurines, coins, precious objects, sculpture and inscriptions. There was evidence of workshop activity, particularly stone masonry. A pharmacy was represented on a funerary stele (Esperandieu 1915, No.4892). A residential area with evidence of wealth has been excavated (site: Rue-desRoises, Derriere Matelotte ). The fortifications enclosed an area of about 21ha, but the settlement was more extensive. Dating of occupation has not been completed, but the vicus probably flourished from the first to the fourth century

Fig. 45 Grand, plan of the modem town with the late Empire fortifications and the theatre (after Y. Burnand in Gallia 36, 1978: 341).

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