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Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Roman and Vicus Road Camp of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux is a historical monument located in the commune of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department (64). This site, dating from the Gallo-Roman periods between the 1st and 3rd centuries, illustrates the strategic importance of this region under Roman rule. It combines military (the camp) and civilian (the road vicus), reflecting an occupation both defensive and organized around the lines of communication of the time.

The sections of the Roman camp and the road vicus were subject to separate legal protections. Some parts (cadastre B 423, 426, 427) were classified by order of 27 September 1984, while others (cadastre B 414) were listed on the same date. These measures highlight the heritage value of the site, although its precise location remains approximate, with an accuracy estimated at 7/10 based on available data. The site is referenced in the Mérimée database under Insee code 64484, attached to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

In the Gallo-Roman era, military camps such as that of Saint-Jean-le-Vieux often served as support points for controlling the conquered territories and securing the roads. The vici (plural of vicus), on the other hand, were secondary agglomerations linked to roads, where artisanal, commercial and agricultural activities developed. These sets illustrate the gradual romanization of the regions, combining military infrastructure and civilian life.

No additional information is available about sponsors, site-specific events, or associated historical characters. Sources are limited to Monumentum data and administrative references, without details of archaeological excavations or discovered artifacts. The approximate location, "5345 Herri Bazterra", suggests a rural area, typical of Roman settlements in Aquitaine.

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