In recent years, archaeologists in France have unearthed ancient burial sites containing the remains of over 25 stallions. These horses were found in pits, arranged on their right sides and facing south, in two rows and on two levels. Radiocarbon dating suggests that these animals perished between 100 B.C. and A.D. 100, and based on their small stature, researchers believe they were Gallic livestock.
The excavation site spans three acres and is situated in a valley near Villedieu-sur-Indre in central France, dating back to the fifth and sixth centuries. The site comprises several buildings, ditches, and a cluster of nine pits where the horses were found. Two of the pits have been excavated so far, revealing the carefully placed remains of 28 horses.
One of the pits also contained two adult dogs buried with their heads facing west. While the cause of their demise remains unknown, archaeologists suspect that the horses and dogs were part of a larger sacrificial ceremony. The discovery at Villedieu-sur-Indre may be linked to a Neolithic burial site in Auvergne, where previous excavations unveiled similar sacrificial practices.
Another horse burial site in Gondola has been associated with the Gallic Wars led by Julius Caesar, which involved “eight riders and their horses”. More research is needed to fully understand the significance of these discoveries at these sites but they provide valuable insights into the ancient rituals and beliefs of the Gallic people during this tumultuous period in history.
Overall, these findings highlight how little we know about our past when it comes to cultural practices and beliefs of civilizations long gone.
