Rodez
Rodez is a historic city in southern France, with origins dating back to the 5th century BC when it was founded by the Celtic tribe of the Ruteni. It served as a significant Gallic oppidum, later becoming a Roman settlement known as Segodunum and then Civitas Rutenorum. Throughout its history, Rodez experienced occupations by various powers, including the Visigoths, Franks, Arabs, and English, and was notably marked by a medieval rivalry between its Counts and Bishops. Today, it is the prefecture of the Aveyron department and a flourishing merchant center.
Key Facts
- ›Founded by the Celtic tribe of the Ruteni in the 5th century BC.
- ›Originally known as Segodunum by the Celts, later Civitas Rutenorum by the Romans.
- ›Experienced occupations by Visigoths, Franks, Arabs, and English.
- ›Medieval history characterized by rivalry between Counts and Bishops of Rodez.
- ›Became the prefecture of the Aveyron department after the French Revolution.
- Rodez Cathedral
- Remains of Ancient City Fortifications
- Historic Center With Preserved Buildings and Pedestrian Alleys
- Place Du Bourg, Place De L'Olmet, Place De La Cité, Place De La Madeleine
- Passage Du Mazel
Segodunum, Civitas Rutenorum, Ruteni, RodéS
Saint Amans, John Iv, FrançOis D'Estaing, Henry Vi of Rodez
- Founded By the Ruteni Tribe
- Roman Occupation and Renaming To Segodunum
- Occupation By Visigoths
- Ravaged By Arabs
- Occupation By English Troops During the Hundred Years' War
- Rivalry Between Counts and Bishops of Rodez
- Submission of Count John Iv By Louis Xi
- Bishop FrançOis D'Estaing Built the Rodez Cathedral
- Sale of Title By Henry Vi To the Crown
- Became Prefecture of Aveyron Department
About Rodez
Rodez is an ancient city located in the Occitania region of southern France, with a history stretching back to at least the 5th century BC. Initially founded by the Celtic tribe of the Ruteni and known as Segodunum, it later became a Roman settlement called Civitas Rutenorum, from which its modern name is derived. The city occupies a strategic conical hill known locally as 'Le Piton'.
History and Significance
Throughout its long existence, Rodez has been a site of significant historical events and cultural development. It endured occupations by various peoples, including the Visigoths, Franks, Arabs who ravaged it in 725 AD, and English forces during the Hundred Years' War. A defining characteristic of its medieval history was the intense rivalry between the Counts of Rodez, who held authority outside the city walls, and the Bishops of Rodez, who governed within. This internal division shaped much of the city's medieval development, with separate administrations and competing claims to power.
The Counts of Rodez, notably the dynasty of Armagnac, achieved sovereign privileges, including the right to coin money. In the 15th century, Count John IV submitted to royal French authority, paving the way for greater integration into the kingdom. The 16th century saw the construction of the Rodez Cathedral by Bishop François d'Estaing. The last Count of Rodez, Henry VI, sold his title to the Royal Crown in 1589. Following the French Revolution, Rodez was established as the prefecture of the newly created Aveyron department, a role it continues to fulfill today. The city has strived to preserve its historical character, with efforts to obtain the 'Ville d'Art et d'Histoire' label and potential candidacy for UNESCO World Heritage status, focusing on its historic center and preserved urban morphology.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original name of Rodez?
In antiquity, during the Roman occupation, the city was named Segodunum by the Celtic Ruteni. This name is derived from Gaulish roots meaning 'high hill' or 'stronghold'.
Which tribes or peoples occupied Rodez throughout its history?
Rodez has been occupied by various groups, including the Celtic Ruteni, Romans, Visigoths, Franks, Arabs, and English during the Hundred Years' War.
What was a significant internal conflict in Rodez's medieval history?
The city's history in medieval times was significantly marked by a strong rivalry between the Counts of Rodez, who controlled areas outside the walls, and the Bishops of Rodez, who governed within the city walls. This division led to separate administrations and competition for power.
When did Rodez become the administrative center of its department?
Following the French Revolution, Rodez was designated as the chef-lieu (capital) of the newly created department of Aveyron and has maintained this status since.
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