Map Description

Historical Map of Gaul - 1st Century BC


Illustrating:

Caesar's Campaigns in Gaul

Gallic Revolt Through Gergovia 53-52 BC

• Caesar, 10 Legions - 53 BC
• Caesar, 6 Legions - 52 BC
• Labienus, 4 Legions - 52 BC

Inset:


Siege of Bourges 53 BC

Please note: The Siege of Avaricum (modern Bourges) took place in 52 BC


1 - Second camp of Vercingetorix

2 - Cross section of siege work



Avaricum was a major settlement of the Bituriges tribe in central Gaul (modern-day Bourges, France). Despite his usual scorched-earth strategy, Vercingetorix chose to defend Avaricum, believing it to be too well-fortified for the Romans to capture. This decision would prove costly.

Upon reaching Avaricum, Caesar’s forces faced significant challenges due to the city’s natural defenses and marshy surroundings. Undeterred, the Romans constructed an immense siege ramp to approach the walls. After nearly a month of relentless efforts, they successfully breached the city’s defenses.

What followed was a brutal massacre — Roman troops, frustrated by the prolonged siege and desperate for supplies, slaughtered nearly 40,000 inhabitants. Only about 800 managed to escape and rejoin Vercingetorix.

Following the victory at Avaricum, Caesar moved to besiege Gergovia, the principal town of the Arverni tribe and Vercingetorix's stronghold.

Credits

Courtesy of the United States Military Academy Department of History.

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