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Origin and history

The Endoules is an archaeological site located 1 km northeast of Vallauris, in the Alpes-Maritimes. Dating from the late 3rd or early 2nd century BC, it was known as Cordula and could have been the capital of the tribe of the Decaates, mentioned by the Greek geographer Artemidore of Ephesus in the 1st century BC. With a enclosure of more than 2 meters wide in large blocks, it initially covered 1 hectare, before being extended to 2 hectares under Augustus, when part of the ramparts was destroyed to accommodate a larger agglomeration.

The excavations (2002-2005) revealed remains of houses equipped with wine and olive oil presses, active between 15 BC and 25 BC for about two centuries. These installations, gradually replaced by jars, were abandoned in the late 2nd or early 3rd century, although the village persisted. A monumental gate, built above the old entrance of the Iron Age, bears an inscription dedicated to a MAGISTER PAGI CANTABE, probably responsible local dependent on the city of Antibes.

The decline of the oppidum began in the Lower Empire, with an occupation that shrunk until its disappearance in late antiquity, possibly due to "barbaric" invasions. A necropolis below was home to mausoleums, including that of the Multilius Paternus family (I-II century AD), of local origin. The site, which was listed as historical monuments in 1978 and 1983, delivered 161 coins during ancient excavations (1874-1889). Today, projects aim to accommodate visits.

The oppidum illustrates the evolution of a ligure centre towards a Gallo-Roman agglomeration, marked by architectural and economic transformations. Agricultural production (wine, oil) played a key role, before migrating to neighbouring farms. The remains also reflect cultural exchanges between local and Roman populations, as evidenced by inscriptions and construction techniques.

Archaeological research, including that of CNRS-IPAAM (1998-1999), has helped to reconstruct the site's occupation. The objects discovered, such as presses or coins, are preserved and studied, providing insight into the daily life and social organization of the Decaates and their Roman successors. The site remains a major testimony of the pre-Roman and Roman history of the region.

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