Gergovia | |
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Etymology: Gaulish |
Gergovia was a Gaulish town in modern Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes [1] in the upper part of the basin of the Allier, [2] near present-day Clermont-Ferrand. It was the capital of the Averni. [3] The city of Gergovia had strong walls and was located on a giant raised plateau surrounded by hills.
It was the chief town ( oppidum) of the Arverni and the site of the Battle of Gergovia in 52 BC. [1] [4] The battle was fought between a Roman Republic army, led by proconsul Julius Caesar, and Gallic forces led by Vercingetorix. [5] Caesar marched south with six legions to take the hill town of Gergovia. [2] The Gauls won the battle, which led to increased cavalry support for Vercingetorix's campaign for future battles. [6] This was a significant failure in Gallia for Caesar and the Roman army. [2]
45°42′30″N 3°7′30″E / 45.70833°N 3.12500°E