Abandonment of the site Entre 30 et 20 av. J.-C. (≈ 100 av. J.-C.)
End of the Gaulish occupation
Ier siècle av. J.-C.
Apex of the oppidum
Apex of the oppidum Ier siècle av. J.-C. (≈ 51 av. J.-C.)
Dense occupation by the Arvernes
2009
Historical Monument
Historical Monument 2009 (≈ 2009)
Protection of remains and surroundings
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
The entire opidum, as well as its surroundings, comprising the remains in elevation and buried (Box ZH 2 to 6, 11, 13, 14 to 17 - excluding all buildings built there -, 22, 23; ZE 2 to 19, 46 - to the limit of the roundabout of the area of the Rocks -, 58 - to the east limit of the project of subdivision -, 59 - to the east limit of the project of subdivision -, 67 to 70): inscription by order of 20 May 2009
Key figures
Information non disponible - No character cited
Sources do not mention names
Origin and history
The Oppidum de Gondole is a major archaeological site located in the commune of Ashre, Puy-de-Dôme, in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Occupying a natural spur overlooking the Allier and Auzon valleys, it was barred by a massive fortification 600 metres long, including a ditch and a slope. This defensive system protected an internal area of 28 hectares, while the entire site, including extramural areas, covered 70 hectares. The opidum was connected to Gergau by a wide path lined with palissades, demonstrating its strategic importance among arverne agglomerations at the end of the iron age (La Tene D2).
The excavations revealed an imposing rampart, artisanal quarters (potter furnaces, forge shops) and exceptional burials, including a collective grave of eight men and their horses. These discoveries suggest the presence of a warrior elite with close ties to Rome, as evidenced by Roman military objects found in a violent context. The site, abandoned between 30 and 20 BC, offers a unique insight into funeral practices and the social organization of the Arvernes before the Roman conquest.
Ranked a Historic Monument in 2009, the Gondole Oppidum includes uplifted and buried remains, protected on a perimeter including communal, departmental and private parcels. His study reveals a dense occupation in the 1st century B.C., with quadrangular or circular structures and an organized old network. The discovery of a vast sepulchral area, including horse pits, is an unprecedented testimony in Gaul, highlighting the aristocratic and military character of its occupants.
Announcements
Please log in to post a review