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Archaeological 'breakthrough' could confirm origins of Paris

PARIS: An ancient wall discovered in central Paris was hailed as a “major breakthrough” on Wednesday, as the archaeological find may have settled a long-standing debate about the location of the city’s original settlement.

Archaeological 'breakthrough' could confirm origins of Paris

Parisian archaeologists made a significant discovery on Wednesday, unearthing a 20-meter wall dating from the Gallo-Roman period. The fragment, believed to be part of the Lutetia ramparts, was found beneath a Paris hospital on the Ile de la Cite, close to Notre Dame Cathedral. This find may settle a long-standing debate about the location of Paris' original settlement.

The Gallic Parisii tribe, who inhabited the area during the Iron Age, constructed the wall. The Ile de la Cite has traditionally been considered the heart of Lutetia, but recent research suggests it could have been in Nanterre. Culture Minister Catherine Pegard hailed the discovery as a "major breakthrough." The wall also shows signs of fire, potentially matching Caesar's account of the Gauls setting their town ablaze before the Battle of Lutetia in 52 BC.

Carbon-dating places the wall's construction between 10-200 BC, aligning with the Battle of Lutetia. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire expressed excitement about the revelation of Paris' origins.

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