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Origin and history

The Gallo-Roman basilica of Balaruc-les-Bains is an ancient building dated the third century, of which today only remains remains. Located in the Bordes Square, in the heart of the spa town of Balaruc-les-Bains (Herault, Occitanie), it was discovered during archaeological excavations conducted in the early 1980s. This research allowed for the discovery of a stone bust representing Neptune in 1981, as well as decorative elements such as dolphins and inscriptions, revealing the symbolic and religious importance of the site.

The building, with an area of about 185 m2, consisted of a central space decorated with a basin, flanked by two small utility rooms accessible by a gallery of three meters wide. These architectural features, combined with the artifacts found, suggest a civic and cult function, typical of the Roman provincial basilicas. The remains were officially protected by an inscription to historic monuments on 5 February 1987, recognizing their heritage value.

The basilical complex of Balaruc-les-Bains is distinguished from other local remains by the richness of the elements discovered, providing valuable insight into urban planning and the religious practices of the Roman Gaul. The presence of Neptune, god of waters, could be linked to the thermal vocation of the city, already exploited in ancient times. Today, the site belongs to the municipality and remains accessible, although its state of conservation limits the possibilities of in-depth visits.

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