Citadelle gallo-romaine de Vésone

The Citadelle gallo-romaine de Vésone is an ancient fortification with around 24 circular towers roughly 8 meters across, joined by walls that once encircled the city. Today visitors find the remains scattered across several streets, where foundations and gate structures still stand.

The fortification arose around 284 CE after the Roman city of Vesunna faced destruction during raids, prompting the construction of a new, heavily defended settlement. The builders reused materials from the earlier city and employed military design innovations of the late Roman period.

The Mars Gate displays the craftsmanship of Gallo-Roman builders, with decorative details still visible that show how military structures were designed. Visitors can see the skill and care that went into constructing these defensive walls.

The remains sit scattered across multiple streets in central Périgueux, mainly along Rue de Turenne and Rue Romaine, where visitors can spot the old structures while walking. It makes sense to allow time for a leisurely route to explore the different gates and wall sections throughout the city.

Around half of the Mars Gate still lies buried beneath street level, revealing how much the city ground has risen over the centuries. This hidden depth shows that ancient treasures remain concealed just below where visitors walk.