Narbonne history

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of Narbonne dates back to 118 BC. The city was founded by the Roman consul Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus and was given the name Colonia Narbo Martius. This event was a landmark, as Narbonne became the first Roman colony in Gaul established outside of Italy, highlighting Rome's ambitions to develop new territories.

Key Factors of Development

The transformation of a small settlement into a thriving ancient metropolis was driven by several factors:

• Strategic Geography: The city was established at a key point on the crossroads of trade routes, the main one being the Via Domitia. This highway linked Italy with Spain and ensured a constant flow of goods and travellers.
• Port Infrastructure: In ancient times, Narbonne was a major sea port (thanks to lagoons and the River Aude). The port of Narbonne was considered one of the most important in the Western Mediterranean, successfully competing with Massilia (modern-day Marseille).
• Political Status: Emperor Augustus proclaimed the city the capital of the province of Gallia Narbonensis, which brought administrative power and financial investment to the area.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Narbonne was often called the "Daughter of Rome" for its architectural splendour and cultural proximity to the metropolis. The city became a centre for the Romanisation of the region: monumental forums, temples, amphitheatres, and thermal baths were erected here.

The city's economy flourished through the export of Gallic wine, ceramics, and metals, as well as the import of luxury goods from Rome and the eastern provinces. The presence of veterans of the Roman legions, settled here by Julius Caesar, formed a distinct social stratum loyal to the empire and contributing to the stability of the region.

Key Dates in the History of Narbonne

• 118 BC — Roman consul Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus founds the colony of Narbo Martius, which becomes the first Roman settlement in Gaul.
• 27 BC — Emperor Augustus proclaims the city the capital of the province of Gallia Narbonensis, leading to its architectural flourishing.
• 462 — The Visigoths occupy the city, making it the capital of their domains in the historical region of Septimania.
• 719 — Narbonne is captured by the forces of the Umayyad Caliphate and becomes their main outpost in the territory of modern France.
• 759 — Pepin the Short retakes the city after a long siege, definitively annexing it to the Frankish state.
• 1272 — Construction begins on the monumental Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur, which remains unfinished to this day.
• 1320 — The River Aude suddenly changes its course due to severe flooding, leading to the silting of the port and economic decline.
• 1507 — The city officially and finally becomes part of the French Crown lands under King Louis XII.
• 1686 — Construction of the Canal de la Robine is completed, connecting the city to the Canal du Midi system and the Mediterranean Sea.
• 1857 — The opening of railway connections links Narbonne with major cities and stimulates the wine trade.
• 1907 — The city becomes the centre of a massive revolt by winemakers of southern France, demanding protection against unfair competition.
• 2021 — The modern archaeological museum Narbo Via opens, designed to preserve and showcase the city's rich ancient heritage.

Stages of Development and Transformation of Narbonne

The history of Narbonne is a series of rises and falls associated with changing trade routes and natural conditions. Below are the key milestones that shaped the modern appearance and status of the city.

• Capital Status in the Roman Empire (1st century BC — 2nd century AD)
  As the capital of the province of Gallia Narbonensis, the city received a monumental layout comparable to Rome. This laid the foundation for the urban street grid and created a powerful economic base, turning Narbonne into the second most important port in the Mediterranean after Ostia.
• Establishment as a Religious Centre (Middle Ages)
  After the fall of Rome, the city retained influence as the seat of archbishops. The construction of the Archbishop's Palace and the Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur (begun in 1272) cemented Narbonne's status as the spiritual capital of the region, reflected in the unique architectural ensemble of the historic centre.
• Geological Disaster and Loss of the Port (14th century)
  The sudden change in the course of the River Aude and the silting of the harbour became a turning point. The city lost direct access to the sea and its status as an international trade hub, leading to prolonged economic stagnation and the preservation of medieval buildings.
• Hydraulic Revival (17th century)
  The construction of the Canal de la Robine restored the city's connection to waterways, linking it with the Canal du Midi and the Mediterranean Sea. This structure not only revitalised trade but also formed new urban promenades, which are today a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The Railway Era (from 1857)
  Connection to the French railway network gave a powerful boost to the economy. Narbonne became an important transport hub (the railway "crossroads" of the south), which allowed for the mass export of local produce and stimulated population growth.
• Viticulture Boom and Urban Planning (Late 19th century)
  The development of viticulture brought colossal revenue to the region. The "Golden Age" of wine production was reflected in architecture: wealthy mansions, theatres, and public buildings in the Haussmann style appeared, contrasting with the old medieval centre.
• Modern Cultural Renovation (21st century)
  The opening of the high-tech Narbo Via museum (a project by Foster + Partners) marked the transition to an experience economy. The city has reimagined its ancient heritage, turning it from museum exhibits into a major driver of international tourism.

Architectural Appearance: A Link Between Eras

The urban development of Narbonne is a visible chronicle where each layer corresponds to a period of economic rise or political influence. The urban landscape formed around two centres: the religious (Cité district) and the commercial (Bourg district), separated by the Canal de la Robine.

Key Architectural Epochs and Styles

In Narbonne, austere antiquity, monumental Gothic, and the elegance of the viticulture boom era intertwine.

• Antiquity and Hidden Foundations (1st century BC — 4th century AD)
  Although few above-ground monuments of the Roman era have survived, the urban grid of the centre partially repeats the Roman layout.
  Landmark sites:
  • Horreum: Unique underground warehouse galleries preserved in perfect condition. An example of Roman engineering thought.
  • Fragment of the Via Domitia: An exposed section of the ancient pavement right on the square in front of the City Hall, serving as a reminder of its status as a transport hub.
• Middle Ages: Romanesque and Gothic (11th — 14th centuries)
  The era of ecclesiastical power defined the city's silhouette. The architecture of this period is distinguished by monumentality and a defensive character.
  Landmark sites:
  • Cathedral of Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur: A vivid example of Rayonnant Gothic from northern France brought to the south. The building is unique for its incompleteness — only the choir was built, but its height (41 metres) makes the cathedral one of the tallest in the country.
  • Archbishop's Palace: A complex combining Romanesque style (Old Palace) and Gothic (New Palace). The Gilles Aycelin Keep serves as a dominant feature, rising above the city as a symbol of the church's secular power.
  • Basilica of Saint-Paul-Serge: One of the oldest churches in the south of France, combining early Gothic with Romanesque elements.
• Renaissance and Classicism (16th — 18th centuries)
  During this period, the city was built up with private mansions (hôtels particuliers) of the wealthy bourgeoisie. Facades became more decorative, and inner courtyards and stucco moulding appeared.
  Landmark sites:
  • Maison des Trois Nourrices (House of the Three Nurses): A magnificent example of Renaissance architecture with a richly decorated facade and caryatids.
• "Golden Age" of Viticulture (Second half of the 19th — early 20th century)
  The boom in the wine trade led to the reconstruction of the city in the spirit of Parisian Haussmannization. Wide boulevards, public buildings, and elements of industrial style appeared.
  Landmark sites:
  • Les Halles (Covered Market): A building in the Baltard style (eclecticism using metal and glass), which has become the gastronomic heart of the city.
  • Embankments of the Canal de la Robine: Landscaped promenades with plane trees and elegant bridges, turning the former riverbed into the main walking area.
• Modern Architecture (21st century)
  The modern stage is characterised by the integration of high-tech into the historical environment with an emphasis on museum and cultural spaces.
  Landmark sites:
  • Narbo Via: An archaeological museum designed by the bureau of Norman Foster. The building in high-tech style using rammed earth (pisé) fits harmoniously into the landscape, emphasising the connection with the Roman past through modern forms.

Famous Natives and Residents of Narbonne

Narbonne's rich past is inextricably linked with the names of great commanders, rulers, poets, and politicians who left their mark on world history and culture.

• Gnaeus Domitius Ahenobarbus (2nd century BC)
  Roman Consul and Commander
  A key figure in the city's history. It was he who founded the first Roman colony in Gaul — Narbo Martius — and initiated the construction of the Via Domitia, transforming the settlement into a vital strategic hub of the ancient world.
• Saint Sebastian (c. 256–288 AD)
  Christian Saint and Martyr
  According to church tradition, one of the most revered Christian saints was born in Narbonne. Although his martyrdom occurred in Rome, he is honoured in his hometown as a patron, and one of the ancient churches bears his name.
• Ermengarde of Narbonne (c. 1127–1197 AD)
  Viscountess of Narbonne
  An outstanding ruler of the Middle Ages who turned her court into a cultural centre of Occitania. She was known as a wise diplomat and a generous patron of troubadours, strengthening the city's political influence during turbulent feudal times.
• Charles Trenet (1913–2001)
  Singer and Songwriter
  The legendary French chansonnier, nicknamed the "Singing Madman" (Le Fou Chantant), was born in Narbonne. The author of the immortal hit "La Mer" drew inspiration from the landscapes of his native land. Today, his childhood home has been turned into a museum.
• Léon Blum (1872–1950)
  Politician and Statesman
  Although Blum was born in Paris, his political career is closely linked to Narbonne, from where he was elected as a deputy to parliament in 1929. As the head of the Popular Front government, he played a significant role in the social history of 20th-century France.
• Pierre Reverdy (1889–1960)
  Poet
  A native of Narbonne who became one of the key figures of the French avant-garde. A friend of Picasso and Braque, he is considered a precursor to Surrealism and one of the greatest poets of his time, whose work influenced the development of modern literature.