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Uxellodunum
44.9500° N, 1.6800° E
About
Uxellodunum is an Iron Age hill fort, or oppidum, located above the river Dordogne near the modern-day French village of Vayrac in the Lot department. This stronghold lay within the lands of the Cadurci tribe. According to Aulus Hirtius in his addendum to Julius Caesar's Commentaries on the Gallic War, the last revolt against Rome's authority in Gaul occurred here, and was brutally punished. The Commentaries on the Gallic War describe Uxellodunum as being strongly fortified by its natural position, with a river dividing the valley below that almost surrounded the steep craggy mountain on which the citadel was built. The name apparently means "high fort"; "dun" is a Celtic word for fort, which is to be found in many place-names.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Siege of Uxellodunum
51 BC
Nineteenth-century location debate
19th century
Champollion-Figeac publication
1820
Official recognition by French Ministry of Culture
2001
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Defensive Structures
Military Installations
Water Management Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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