Gergovie Monument

The Gergovie Monument is a stone structure standing 26 meters tall on the Gergovie plateau, topped with three columns and Corinthian capitals. A Gaulish helmet crowns the design, and below the surface lies a crypt containing a cenotaph made from local volcanic stone.

The structure was erected in 1900 by architect Jean Teillard to mark the location of an ancient battle fought in 52 BCE on this plateau. This victory was ultimately followed by significant shifts in control that reshaped the broader region.

The monument stands as a symbol of resistance rooted in local memory, shaping how people understand their regional past. Visitors encounter the Latin inscription at the crypt entrance, which tells this story and gives the place its significance for the community.

The monument sits on a 70-hectare plateau that invites walking and exploration across volcanic landscapes with views of the Auvergne region. Plan your visit for clear weather to fully appreciate the expansive views from the high ground.

The cenotaph housed in the crypt is constructed from local Volvic stone, a volcanic material extracted directly from the surrounding region. This choice links the memorial physically to the landscape it commemorates.

Location: Gergovie

Architects: Jean Teillard

GPS coordinates: 45.72100,3.12690

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:48