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France

Cenabum

Ancient Gallic oppidum and commercial hub.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Cenabum, located near present-day Orléans, was an ancient Gallic oppidum and the capital of the Carnutes tribe, serving as a significant commercial hub on the Loire River. It was fortified with walls, moats, and a strategically vital bridge. In 52 BCE, during the Gallic Wars, it was captured and destroyed by Julius Caesar, marking a pivotal moment in Roman expansion. The site was later rebuilt and renamed Urbs Aurelianorum by Emperor Aurelian in 273 CE, featuring new defensive structures to protect against barbarian invasions. It endured several sieges, including one by Attila the Hun in 451 CE, and was eventually integrated into the Merovingian kingdom after being conquered by the Salian Franks in 498 CE. Cenabum's archaeological significance lies in its transformation from a Gallic stronghold to a Romanized city, reflecting the broader historical shifts in the region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Cenabum

FileGallia_Cesare_52_aC.png
FileMap_Gallia_Tribes_Towns.png
FileSaint_Euverte_hotel_groslot_orleans.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Defensive WallsMoatsRamparts

Public and Civic Structures

Marketplaces

Domestic and Habitation Structures

TownsCities

Transportation and Communication Structures

Bridges

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
France
Source
Wikipedia