Villetelle – Hérault – Occitanie
Ambrussum, in the footsteps of Rome
15 min by car, walk, easy to moderate
The Via Domitia
In Villetelle, between Nîmes and Montpellier, the archaeological site of Ambrussum takes you back in time, from the Gallic era to the Roman period. Set on a hill overlooking the Vidourle river, this former oppidum occupied by the Volcae Arecomici became a major stop on the Via Domitia, the first great Roman road built in Gaul.
The Via Domitia linked Italy to Spain across southern Gaul. At Ambrussum, you can still admire a remarkably well-preserved stretch of this paved road: the ruts worn by passing chariots recall the heavy traffic that once used this great route. The site also housed a roadside staging post, where travellers, merchants and soldiers could stop.
The Pont Ambroix
At the foot of the hill, the famous Pont Ambroix crossed the Vidourle and carried the Via Domitia onwards. Built in Roman times, it survives today as a single arch, which is enough to give an idea of how monumental the original structure was. Listed as a historic monument since 1840, the bridge also inspired the painter Gustave Courbet in the 19th century.
A museum to understand the site
The Ambrussum archaeological museum complements the walk among the remains. It displays objects found during excavations and helps you understand the daily life of the inhabitants, the layout of the oppidum, the Romanisation of the area and the strategic role of this stop on the Via Domitia. Opened in 2011, it is an excellent place to start or end your visit.
Open to all and free of charge all year round, the site offers a walk that is both pleasant and informative, among ancient heritage, garrigue scrubland and the landscapes of the Vidourle. Ambrussum is one of the most telling examples of the meeting between the Gallic world and Roman civilisation in Occitanie.
An app is also available for an augmented reality tour, perfect for getting an idea of what the site once looked like.
This map is provided by Google Maps, which sets cookies.
Open in Google MapsStay close to Ambrussum
Extend your discovery of Ambrussum by staying at our villa near the archaeological site. A comfortable, peaceful setting, ideal for exploring the Via Domitia, the Pont Ambroix, the villages of the Petite Camargue and the Mediterranean beaches, while enjoying some real relaxation.
In a villa sleeping 12 or an apartment sleeping 4 or 8, enjoy a peaceful stay.
Accommodation for up to 12 guests
from 100 € / night
1 night
-10 %