Friday, 16.07.2004 - Iulia Equestris (Nyon), Waadt

The year of the set up of the Colonia Iulia Equestris is not exactly known. It is presumed however, that this was around the year 45 BC. Presumably veterans of Gaius Iulius Caesar's army were settled here. The origin of the Celtic name, Noviodunum, is up to now not clear. It is the origin of the present name, Nyon. Up to know no Celtic predecessor buildings were found. These could have been destroyed completely of course. Another theory assumes that the name comes from a near Oppidum.

The city was planned in a chessboard-like insulae (accommodations) system. The forum obviously had at the beginning only a area publica (public district). In tiberian time (14 to 37 AD) was added an area sacra (holy district). Between 50 and 70 AD the basilica was rebuilt in a larger way. On this occasion was constructed a macellum.

Other public buildings where the thermal springs and an amphitheater. Against the end of the 3rd century Genava (Geneva) became an important place. It's city wall was also constructed with stone fragments from Iulia Equestris, whose importance went down and which one was presumably devastated.

Today still some buildings from the roman time are visible: In the park de Mangette is to see a part of the water pipeline from the region around Divonne, however, it is in a bad state and with a grate covered. The basilica is also a museum. In the Promenade des Vieilles Murailles are furthermore set up 3 columns of the enclosure of the area sacra. The amphitheater is still in restoration and is not accessible yet. 9 signs to roman buildings are furthermore put up at the respective site. These buildings are (except for the already mentioned ones) at the most marked with slabs.