Alesia

The Battle of Alésia in 52BC was a decisive turning point in the history of France when Vercingétorix, the mighty leader was defeated by Julius Caesar. The Roman troops surrounded the Gauls and besieged them, starving them out.

The Statue of Vercingetorix at Alesia

Alesia mini guide

Guide point	Details
Department:	Central France > Burgundy > Côte-d'Or >
Facilities general:	There is a good restaurant in the village, the Auberge du Cheval Blanc.
Quick links to accommodation:	Accommodation near Alesia - Hotels in Alesia Show accommodation in Côte-d'Or - Self catering in Côte-d'Or - Bed and Breakfast in Côte-d'Or properties with pools in Côte-d'Or -

Guide point

Details

Department:

Central France > Burgundy > Côte-d'Or >

Facilities general:

There is a good restaurant in the village, the Auberge du Cheval Blanc.

Quick links to accommodation:

Accommodation near Alesia - Hotels in Alesia

Show accommodation in Côte-d'Or - Self catering in Côte-d'Or - Bed and Breakfast in Côte-d'Or properties with pools in Côte-d'Or -

Caesar developed a double line of fortification with trenches and walls: one faced inwards to prevent the Gauls escaping and the other outwards to stave off attack from Gaulish armies coming to the rescue.

After six weeks Vercingétorix surrendered to save his people, he was taken to Rome in chains and after some years in in prison was strangled.

Extensive excavations have been done and are continuing and they are are well worth a visit.

There is also a huge statue of Vercingétorix erected by Napoléon III. There is a picnic area here.

The village is now known as Alise-Ste-Reine although both Alesia and Alise-Ste-Reine are signposted locally.