Timeline

Heritage classified

Origin and history

The Oppidum de Teste-Nègre, located in the Pennes-Mirabeau in the Bouches-du-Rhône, is an archaeological site dating back to the protohistoric period. This promontory, culminating at about 280 meters of altitude, offered its occupants a wide view of the plain up to Vitrolles and the pond of Berre. Its strategic location, on an advanced hill of the Nerthe massif, makes it a place linked to regional history, although less important than the adjacent oppidum of the Cloche, located 2 km southwest.

The site, accessible by ridges above the A55 motorway, is characterized by a contrasting landscape: a cool and quiet forest area, surrounded by an arid environment to the south and the motorway. There are archaeological remains, including a south-east dam wall with a tower-like structure, as well as stried terracotta teeth from the excavations. These elements suggest an ancient occupation, although the precise details of its history remain partially unknown.

The Oppidum of Teste-Nègre was classified as historical monuments by a decree of 29 June 1951, thus recognizing its heritage importance. Although less rich in structures than other nearby sites such as the Oppidum de Verduron, located 5 km away, its role in the surveillance of the territory and its links with the Phocean city (Marseille) remain subjects of study for archaeologists. The site is now owned by the commune of Pennes-Mirabeau.

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