This is a small museum that combines archeology, geology, and history. I would say that the…read moreengagement was not as high for those of us who do not have a strong interest in the power struggle that ensued as the mighty Roman Empire expanded into France.
Millions of years ago, there was volcanic activity. We see evidence of that in the plateau, surrounding volcanic peaks and domes, and rocks. The museum featured only a little of this.
Around 50 BC, the Romans and Gauls fought for power throughout France, and this was a battle won by the underdogs protecting a town atop the plateau. There is a lot of information about this time period, with notes from Caesar's diaries, unearthed battle evidence (mass graves with people and horses and weapons and defensive gear). There is also a very tiny bit about what the village atop the plateau looked like with models, found coins, and broken pottery. This is core curriculum for all French people learning about their patrimony.
Then the medieval times passed (not sure what happened here for 800 years), and Napoleon III visited once as part of the continued Napoleon legacy of drawing a direct line to the Roman Emperor. Then in 1900 a monument was built to honor the battle.
That is the museum. It's really the history of the battle. The location is lovely with views, an easy hikes with informative panels, and picnic tables.
