Narbonne is a historic city located in the Occitanie region of southern France. It is situated near the Mediterranean coast, making it a significant port city with a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was called Narbo Martius by the Romans.
The infant Gawain was taken here by a group of merchants. Gawain’s mother, Anna, had given Gawain to the merchants to avoid problems at court with his legitimacy. Landing their ship near the city, the merchants left Gawain and their wealth unguarded on board, where both were taken by a poor fisherman named Viamundus.
Narbonne | 0 to 800 AD
Roman Narbo Martius | 1st century BC – 5th century AD
Narbo Martius was founded by the Romans in 118 BC during the Roman Republic. It served as a vital Roman colony in the region of Gallia Narbonensis, the Roman province covering much of southern France. The city thrived as a trading center, benefiting from its strategic location on the Via Domitia, an important Roman road connecting Italy to Spain. Narbonne’s Roman heritage is evident in its architectural remains, including the Via Domitia and the underground Horreum.
Early Christian Period | 4th – 5th centuries AD
As Christianity spread through the Roman Empire, Narbonne became a center for early Christian activity. The city was the seat of a bishopric, and a Christian community was established. The construction of the city’s cathedral, Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur, began during this period.
Visigothic Rule | 5yh – 8th centuries AD
In the fifth century, as the Western Roman Empire declined, Narbonne fell under the control of the Visigoths. The city served as the capital of the Visigothic Kingdom for a time. The Visigoths left their mark on Narbonne, influencing its culture and governance.
Merovingian and Carolingian Periods | 8th century AD
In the eighth century, Narbonne came under the control of the Franks, a Germanic tribe. This marked the end of Visigothic rule in the region. The city became part of the Carolingian Empire, a Frankish realm ruled by the Carolingian dynasty.
Early Medieval Influence
The early Middle Ages in Narbonne were characterized by the influence of the Catholic Church and the spread of Christianity. The construction of religious buildings, such as the cathedral, played a significant role in the city’s development.
See also
Gaul | The Legend of King Arthur
Source
De Ortu Waluuanii Nepotis Arturi | Late 13th century