Avignon before Rome: the Cavares and Mediterranean trade

History of Avignon Prehistory Before Rome Gallo-Roman Avignon Late antiquity Early Middle Ages The medieval commune The papal move The papal court Western Schism Legates Wars of Religion Altera Roma Eighteenth century Union with France Napoleon Nineteenth century Twentieth century Early twenty-first century

Before the Roman town developed, Avignon participated in exchanges along the lower Rhône Valley. Its history reflects contacts between southern Gaul and the Mediterranean world.

The Rhône and trade

The peoples of southern Gaul maintained contacts with Mediterranean sailors and traders. The Rhône connected inland areas with the coast. Hilltop settlements such as Avignon occupied positions favourable to movement and exchange.

Avignon and the Cavares

Ancient authors associated Avignon with the Cavares. This designation does not make it straightforward to reconstruct the inhabitants’ identity several centuries earlier. The town’s name appears in different ancient forms; interpretations of its origin remain debated.

Tarasque of Noves, Musée Lapidaire, Avignon © Vincent Flachaire

Links with Massalia

Founded around 600 BC by Greeks from Phocaea, Massalia, modern Marseille, played an important part in southern Gaul’s trade. Avignon benefited from these commercial links and movement along the Rhône long before its incorporation into the Roman world.

Hannibal crossed the Rhône during his expedition to Italy. The precise crossing point has prompted many hypotheses and should not be presented as an event securely located on Avignon’s doorstep.

Gaulish warrior, Musée Lapidaire, Avignon © Vincent Flachaire

History of Avignon Prehistory Before Rome Gallo-Roman Avignon Late antiquity Early Middle Ages The medieval commune The papal move The papal court Western Schism Legates Wars of Religion Altera Roma Eighteenth century Union with France Napoleon Nineteenth century Twentieth century Early twenty-first century