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Origin and history

The Roman ramparts of Grenoble, located in the present city centre, date from the third century and mark the transformation of Cularo (formerly Gallo-Roman name of Grenoble) into a fortified city. Their construction, between 285 and 293 under the Emperors Diocletian and Maximian, responds to the threats of the first barbaric invasions. The enclosure, 1.6 km long and equipped with thirty semicircular towers, was surrounded by ditches filled with water. Two main doors allowed access: the Vienna gate to the north (place Notre-Dame present) and the Jovia gate to the south (place Grenette). These ramparts, never stormed, were partially preserved for thirteen centuries, despite two medieval extensions.

In 1963, archaeological excavations revealed the bases of three towers near Lafayette Street, during urban works. The remains still visible today, including a small tower and a courtine pierced by a vaulted passage, were cleared on this occasion. Although most of the discoveries were destroyed to give way to buildings, bronze nails implanted in the Grenobese streets now materialize the original layout of the enclosure. These remains, located in a private property, remain visually accessible from the public pedestrian space.

The ramparts illustrate the adaptation of Gallo-Roman cities to the crises of the third century. Their layout, documented by archival sources and excavations (published in Gallia, 1964), shows a sustainable integration into the urban fabric. Other remains, such as those of the City Garden near the Hôtel de Lesdiguières, confirm the extent of this fortification. Classified as a historical monument in 1957, these discrete remains recall the strategic importance of Grenoble, at the time between the Alps and the Rhône valley.

Access to the ruins is from the pedestrian area at the crossroads of Lafayette Streets and the Republic. Close to Hubert Dubedout tram station - Tourist house (lines A and B), they are visible from outside, although inside the site is closed by a gate. The municipality valued this heritage by pointing out its historical location, inviting passers-by to discover this rare testimony of late antiquity in urban areas.

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