Oppidum de Verduron, Celtic-Ligurian fortified settlement in 15th arrondissement of Marseille, France.
The Oppidum de Verduron is a Celtic-Ligurian fortified settlement perched on a rocky promontory with views toward the Mediterranean coast. The site consists of several dwellings arranged on terraces that reveal how these early communities built and lived together.
The settlement was founded in the late 300s BC and inhabited for roughly a century before being destroyed in the early 100s BC. The destruction was connected to Marseille's expansion as the city sought to control the surrounding territories.
The name reflects the surrounding landscape, and residents left traces of daily life through pottery and tools scattered across the grounds. These objects tell of a community closely tied to the sea and nearby hills.
The location sits on a hilltop with steep approaches, so sturdy shoes and time to explore are recommended. Note that the site today is buried beneath protective layers, though informative markers and signs explain the original layout.
Since 2016, the entire site has been buried beneath protective layers to prevent further damage to the ancient stone structures. This decision makes it an invisible archaeological monument that reflects modern conservation approaches.
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