TheRoman city ofArgentomagus was located in the Mersans plateau of centralFrance, at the strategic point on the north bank of the riverCreuse, where a Roman bridge once traversed. It was located at the crossing of two roads—Cenabum (Orléans) toAugustoritum (Limoges), andLimonum (Poitiers) toAvaricum (Bourges).[1] The Latin name of the city meant "Silver Market." The modern town ofArgenton takes its name from the ancient site of Argentomagus.
In pre-Roman and early-Roman occupation times, the site of Argentomagus was the home of theBituriges tribe (their name meaning "kings of the world"). The Romans conquered the area circa 50 BCE. The city reached its peak during theGallo-Roman period in the 2nd and 3rd century CE. During the late Empire theNotitia Dignitatum indicated a government arms factory in the city. At the end of the Classical period the population center relocated to the south bank and the original site was only lightly built on thereafter. The present-day village of Saint Marcel occupies only a small portion of the original location. Because of this Argentomagus is today an archaeological site of considerable significance.[1]
According to legend Saint Marcellus was beheaded underValerian (253–260) for destroying idols.[1]
The cult ofMercury was popular among the inhabitants, who were active in metal smelting and bronze-smithing. Other cult figures included theEarth Mother,Venus, warrior heroes and various local deities.
_-_Ruines_du_Ch%25C3%25A2teau.jpg)
The archaeological site is of prime interest as it shows how the town evolved from aGaulish settlement into a Roman town. Substantial areas of the ruins have been excavated, including anamphitheatre, aRoman villa, a cemetery, a thermal spring. Unique finds have also been recovered, such as a circular altar pedestal. A local museum related to the site exists in Mersans.
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
| Geographic | |
| Other | |
46°36′1.40″N1°30′54.10″E / 46.6003889°N 1.5150278°E /46.6003889; 1.5150278
