Remains of the Temple of Mercury

Unearthed at the end of the 19th century, the remains of the Temple of Mercury are difficult to read at the beginning of the 21st century. Following a programmed excavation campaign, a project to restore and enhance the sanctuary of Mercury has been launched by the Département and the State.

Unearthed at the end of the 19th century, the remains of the Temple of Mercury are difficult to read at the beginning of the 21st century. Following a programmed excavation campaign, a project to restore and enhance the sanctuary of Mercury has been launched by the Département and the State.

Today, the remains of the Temple of Mercury give only a limited idea of the sanctuary’s monumentality. In ancient times, the southern flank of the summit of the Puy de Dôme was the site of a complex system of processional walkways leading the faithful to the entrance of the temple. Access was gained from the Col de Ceyssat settlement, located at the highest point of Agrippa’s road.

So, in the 2nd century, the largest mountain temple in Roman Gaul stood at the summit of the Puy de Dôme! Mainly dedicated to Mercury, this large terraced sanctuary was a major pilgrimage site.

The temple was therefore built around 2,000 years ago, in a period known as “Gallo-Roman”, almost two centuries after the Roman conquest of Gaul. Mercury seems to have been appreciated by the Arvernes, and was one of the most venerated gods, both god of trade and protector of travelers. His attributes include small wings, a purse and a caduceus.

The construction of this temple at the summit of the Puy de Dôme was no accident. From an ideal vantage point overlooking the capital of the city of Augustonemetum – today’s Clermont-Ferrand – the sanctuary was in plain sight.