Latin: Civitas Cenomanorum, Vindinium
Le Mans is a city located in the Pays de la Loire region of northwestern France.
King Arthur gave Le Mans to Sir Borel to rule.
Le Mans | 0 to the 9th century AD
Roman Period | 1st century BC – 5th century AD
Le Mans has ancient origins, dating back to the Roman era. The Romans established a settlement named Vindinium around the first century BC, located on the crossroads of several Roman roads, making it a strategic hub, and it served as an important Roman administrative and military center. The Romans established fortifications, roads, and other infrastructure in the area. The town served as a center for trade and commerce.
Civitas Cenomanorum and Vindinium refer to the same ancient Roman settlement that later became the city of Le Mans. Civitas Cenomanorum designates the administrative and civic center for the Celtic tribe known as the Cenomani, and Vindinium is the Roman name for the settlement itself.
Early Christianization | 3rd – 5th centuries
Le Mans played a role in the early Christianization of Gaul. The first Bishop of Le Mans, Saint Julian of Le Mans, is traditionally believed to have been appointed in the fourth century.
Early Medieval Period | 5th – 8th centuries
With the decline of the Roman Empire in the early fifth century, Le Mans, like many Roman cities, faced upheaval. The region was affected by invasions of various barbarian tribes.
Merovingian and Carolingian Periods | 5th – 9th centuries
In the fifth century, Le Mans became part of the Kingdom of Visigoths, and later it fell under the control of the Franks. By the eighth century, Le Mans was part of the Frankish Carolingian Empire under the rule of Charlemagne. Le Mans became a significant religious center, and the Abbey of Saint-Pierre de la Couture was founded in the seventh century.
Viking Raids | 9th century
Like many parts of Europe, Le Mans faced Viking raids during the ninth century. The Vikings targeted coastal and riverine areas, including regions along the Loire River.
See also
Visigoths | The Legend of King Arthur
Source
Roman de Brut | Wace, c. 1155