Roman Pyramid in France: Mystery Cenotaph with 2nd Century Lead Tablet. The Pyramide d`Authon-Ebeon (Pyramide de Quintilien) has a Roman origin, built when this part of France was an important Roman center Excavations in 1640 by the abbot of Castile found only solid stone, no internal chamber Additional excavations in the 19th century during renovation work uncovered nothing substantial
The Pyramide d`Authon-Ebeon in France isn't Egyptian—it's Roman! Built when this region was a major Roman center (1st-5th c. AD), experts believe it served as a cenotaph honoring a prominent ruler or local dignitary. Early excavations found only solid stone, no burial chamber—yet.
Key Facts
- The Pyramide d`Authon-Ebeon (Pyramide de Quintilien) has a Roman origin, built when this part of France was an important Roman center
- Excavations in 1640 by the abbot of Castile found only solid stone, no internal chamber
- Additional excavations in the 19th century during renovation work uncovered nothing substantial
- In 1960, a lead 'magic tablet' (15.8 x 5.8 cm) was found, dating to the 2nd century AD during the Roman era of Autun
- The tablet bears inscriptions in Latin and Greek plus a large cross, now housed in the Rollin Museum in Autun
- The monument has a cavity and damage from antiquarian excavations
- Cement mortar applied in the 1980s caused further damage by preventing stone breathing
- 21st century restoration (completed 2024) involved removing cement and applying lime, costing €275,000
- Experts believe it was likely a cenotaph (memorial) for an important Roman ruler or local dignitary
- An undiscovered burial beneath the monument remains possible
- The lead tablet may be a relic related to the deceased or an offering
Related site: The Black Pyramid- Pyramid of Amenemhat III (Dahshur) — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: A Mysterious Ancient Pyramid... in France?! by Ancient Architects