Archaeological 'breakthrough' could confirm origins of 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.
An ancient wall discovered in central Paris has sparked excitement, potentially settling a long-standing debate about the city's original settlement. This roughly 20-meter wall, dating from the Gallo-Roman period, was found beneath a hospital on the Ile de la Cité, close to Notre Dame Cathedral. Believed to be part of Lutetia's ramparts, constructed by the Gallic Parisii tribe, the discovery could confirm the location of Paris's founding.
The Ile de la Cité had previously been considered the center of Lutetia, though rival theories suggested Nanterre. Culture Minister Catherine Pegard described the find as a "major breakthrough." While the wall's exact function and chronology need verification, the evidence is promising. Lutetia, first mentioned by Julius Caesar, was situated on an island in the Seine linked by bridges—a description that fueled various theories.
Carbon dating of the charred material on the wall dates to 10–200 B.C., aligning with Caesar's account of the Gauls setting fire to their town before the Battle of Lutetia in 52 B.C. Paris Mayor Emmanuel Gregoire expressed awe at the discovery, emphasizing its significance in understanding the city's origins.
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- Archaeological ‘breakthrough’ could confirm origins of Paris freemalaysiatoday.com
- Archaeological 'breakthrough' could confirm origins of Paris nst.com.my
