In a groundbreaking archaeological discovery beneath a former hospital in Orléans, France, researchers have unearthed more than 60 graves along with 21 “curse tablets.” These small, inscribed lead sheets, used in ancient Roman rituals to call upon deities for vengeance or blessings, provide a rare glimpse into the cultural practices and spiritual beliefs of the time.
The necropolis, dating back over 2,000 years, was uncovered during excavations at the site of an 18th-century hospital. Among the most significant finds is a curse tablet written in Gaulish, an extinct Celtic language once spoken in the region, invoking Mars, the Roman god of war. This discovery offers a unique connection between Roman and Gallic religious practices during the early centuries of the Roman Empire.
The Necropolis and Its Discoveries
In 2022, archaeologists began excavating the site, which was in use between the 1st and 3rd centuries CE. The team discovered the remains of more than 60 adult men buried in graves arranged along a wall in a pattern that defies typical burial practices of the time. This unusual arrangement suggests the men may have shared a common profession or had other connections.
In addition to skeletal remains, the researchers found traces of painted wooden coffins and various artifacts, including vases and coins. However, the most intriguing discovery was the presence of 21 curse tablets, which were likely used by the deceased or their loved ones to petition the gods for protection, justice, or revenge.
Curse Tablets: Tools for Divine Intervention
The practice of using curse tablets was widespread in ancient Rome. These lead sheets were inscribed with prayers or curses, rolled up, pierced with a nail, and then buried in graves or placed in wells to send the message to the gods. The intention behind these tablets was to influence the divine will, asking for vengeance on enemies or expressing wishes for success and protection.
So far, researchers have translated one of the curse tablets, which offers a fascinating insight into the spiritual world of the ancient Gauls. The inscription reads:
“To Mars the Royal, who pierces names
It is the bewitchment of these men and women below (named)
who accomplished the unfortunate and unjust feat
and also all those who were accomplices of these men and women.”
The curse then lists several names, suggesting that the tablet was meant to invoke divine retribution on those individuals. This unique inscription, written in Gaulish, highlights the fusion of Roman and local Celtic religious practices as the Romans sought to integrate the diverse cultures of their empire.
A Valuable Historical Insight
The translation of the Gaulish curse tablet offers an exciting breakthrough in the study of ancient languages and rituals. Linguists and archaeologists continue to work on translating the remaining tablets, with the hope that they will uncover more about the beliefs, social structures, and political dynamics of the time.
The excavation of the necropolis is expected to conclude by the end of this month, but the study of the remains, curse tablets, and other artifacts will continue for years to come. Researchers are particularly eager to learn more about the religious practices and the people buried in these graves, as the site provides a rare opportunity to understand the interactions between Roman colonizers and the indigenous Gallic population during the early stages of the Roman Empire.
