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Origin and history

The two Miles of Arras-sur-Rhône are Roman remains discovered in the commune of Arras-sur-Rhône, in Ardèche (region Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes). These stone columns, typical of Roman roads, had partially legible Latin inscriptions. Their dating is based on the titles of two emperors mentioned: one around 285/286, the other around 308/311. Originally, they were 2.45 metres high with a diameter of 35 cm, but now consist of two assembled fragments.

Originally located in the disused cemetery surrounding the church of Arras-sur-Rhône, these terminals were moved in 1939 to the castle-museum of Tournon-sur-Rhône for their conservation. Their primary function was to indicate the distances along the Roman roads, thus marking the road network of the city of Vienna under the Empire. They bear witness to the administrative organisation and transport infrastructure of the Roman Gaul.

Classified as historical monuments since 15 November 1926, these pillars are the subject of epigraphic and archaeological studies. Their inscriptions were referenced in specialized corpus, such as the Corpus Inscription Latinarum, and analyzed by researchers such as Gerold Walser or François Bertrandy. Their preservation illustrates the importance attached to the ancient heritage in Ardèche, a region rich in Gallo-Roman remains.

The terminals are now kept in the courtyard of honour of the Tournon-sur-Rhône castle-museum, where they are accessible to the public. Their study contributes to the knowledge of Roman ways in Narbonnaise and of road signs under the Lower Empire. Their dual dates also shed light on the political and administrative developments of this pivotal period.

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