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Heritage classified

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Origin and history

The Gallo-Roman villa of Nontronneau, located in the municipality of Lussas-et-Nontronneau (Dordogne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine), is a major architectural vestige of the High Roman Empire. Discovered in 1967 during a drought, it reveals a typical organisation of the aristocratic residences of the time, with a gallery courtyard, vestibules of appartment, reception rooms and thermal baths. Its architecture reflects three distinct construction phases: a first construction under the Flavian dynasty (69-96), followed by an enlargement in the second century, and a second extension in the early and mid-third century, during which the thermal baths were added.

Archaeological excavations, carried out between 1970 and 1984 and between 2002 and 2005, revealed these remains, now protected as historical monuments since 21 December 1984. The villa illustrates the way of life of the Gallo-Roman elites in Aquitaine, combining Roman influences and local traditions. Its location in Nontronnais, near the eponymous village, suggests an occupation related to the farm or administrative role in this rural area.

The villa is distinguished by its complex plan and luxurious amenities, characteristic of the villæ intended for a Romanized aristocracy. The thermal baths, added during the last phase of construction, testify to the adoption of Roman practices of well-being and sociability. Although the sources do not mention specific historical characters related to the site, its inscription to the heritage underscores its importance for understanding the Roman occupation in Aquitaine Gaul.

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