Vix grave, Celtic burial site at Mont Lassois, France
The Vix grave is a Celtic burial on Mont Lassois that contains a wooden chamber hidden beneath stone and enclosed within a large earthen mound. The site also holds the remains of a dismantled wagon and numerous bronze and ceramic objects alongside other grave goods.
The site was excavated in 1952 and dates to around 480 BCE, a time when Celtic societies were building their influence across Europe. This discovery revealed that Mont Lassois was a major center of power and commerce in the Early Iron Age.
The burial demonstrates that Celtic communities actively participated in trade with Mediterranean societies, acquiring Greek and Etruscan goods that reflected their status and connections. The presence of these distant imports reveals how far-reaching contact networks extended across Europe during this era.
The burial site is located on a hilltop where the earthen mounds remain visible and the former Celtic settlement can still be observed. A visit involves navigating uneven terrain, and guided archaeological programs offer deeper exploration of the area and its history.
The most remarkable object from the grave is an enormous bronze vessel that ranks among the largest metal containers known from antiquity and once served as a prestige item. This exceptional work reveals the craftsmanship and wealth of the Celtic elite of that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
