Origin and history

The oppidum de la Courtine is an archaeological monument located in the commune of Ollioules, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Although its exact period of occupation is not specified in the available sources, this type of site generally corresponds to fortified settlements dating from the Iron Age or Antiquity, playing a strategic or defensive role in their geographic environment. Oppidas, characteristic of the ancient Gaulish or Mediterranean peoples, often served as refuges, places of control for trade or political centres.

In southern France, these sites were frequently located on heights, providing a dominant view of valleys or communication routes. Their presence reflects the social and economic organization of the communities of the time, marked by agriculture, crafts and trade.