Site archéologique d'Allonnes, Archaeological site in Allonnes, France
The archaeological site at Allonnes is a sprawling complex with remains from Gallo-Roman times, including bathing facilities, temples, domestic buildings, and public structures across several layers of history. The excavated areas reveal how people organized their spaces, with visible floor plans and preserved walls showing the layout of daily life and religious activity.
The site began as a Gallic settlement in the 2nd century BC but transformed into a major religious and trading center during Roman rule. This evolution demonstrates how local traditions merged with Roman influences to create a prosperous community over several centuries.
The Mars Mullo shrine served as a major pilgrimage center where local communities gathered to honor their deities and leave offerings. The layout and remaining structures show how religious practice shaped daily life and brought people together across generations.
Visits require prior arrangement with guided tours providing detailed explanations of the excavated areas and finds. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain is uneven with exposed foundations and walls, and allow time to walk through the various sections at a comfortable pace.
Wells contain remarkable ritual deposits with unusually well-preserved objects including wooden items, leather goods, and Celtic coins that pilgrims left as offerings. These organic finds provide rare glimpses into personal belongings and vows people made at this sacred spot.
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