Excavations on the Site of the Ancient Town of Alesia

Introduction

• Julius Caesar's conquest of Gaul was a cornerstone of modern European history.
• The Battle of Alesia was a decisive moment where Romans defeated Vercingetorix and the Gauls.
• The site of Alesia is located on the plateau of Mont-Auxois in Burgundy, France.

Historical Identification of Alesia

• The village of Alise Sainte-Reine nearby suggested the location of Alesia.
• 1839: A stone inscription with the words "IN ALISIIA" was found.
• Lead tokens inscribed with ALS and ALSENS were historically present but later lost.

Topographical Features

• Caesar’s description matched the natural features of Mont-Auxois.
• The plateau is elliptical, with the village on its southwestern slope.
• Mont-Auxois is surrounded by valleys and hills, with streams such as the Oze and Ozerain enclosing it.

Archaeological Evidence

• Napoleon III authorized excavations (1861-1865) revealing earthworks from Caesar’s campaigns.
• Excavations continue to provide insights into the life during the Gallic and Gallo-Roman periods.

Recent Excavations

• Systematic excavations began in 1905, led by the Societe des Sciences Historiques et Naturelles de Semur.
• Finds include pottery, metalwork, and bone artifacts, indicating industrial activity.

Notable Structures

• The theater was built under Augustus, as indicated by coin findings.
• A sanctuary likely dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva.
• The Monument 'a Trois Absides probably served as the basilica.
• A large building thought to be a bathhouse or thermae.

Religious and Cultural Significance

• The shrine of Apollo Moritasgus was a revered site for healing.
• Gallic religions persisted alongside Roman practices.

Christian Influence and Saint Regina

• Christian worship established at Alesia, with a church dedicated to Saint Regina.
• Excavations revealed sarcophagi and structures suggesting a monastery.
• The relics of Saint Regina were later moved to the Abbey of Flavigny.

Conclusion

• Alesia’s historical and archaeological finds demonstrate its significance from Gallic to Christian times.
• The site holds a rich cultural and religious heritage, offering insights into ancient European history.