A fragment of ancient Roman statuary found at Saint-Martin-au Val sanctuary, Chartres, France, 2026©Ville de Chartres – Chartres Archéologie.

Rare Cache of Ancient Roman Sculptures Discovered at Chartres

by · ARTnews

A new archeological excavation at the Saint-Martin-au Val sanctuary in Chartres, France, has unearthed a collection of fragments of Roman stone statues and sculpted reliefs, reports Heritage Daily. Archaeologists also found evidence of a water system that may have played a role in ancient rituals.

A monumental Gallo-Roman religious complex, the walled sanctuary occupied over 25 acres and enclosed a massive temple with walkways, a portico, and several other structures. Begun around 70–80 CE, it seems to have been abandoned by 130 CE—perhaps without ever having been completed. It is considered one of the most important Roman religious structures still surviving in France and is notable for its preserved wooden ceiling.

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The discoveries were made during the 2026 excavation campaign, which resumed this year after a four-year break. Among the most significant were the fragments of statuary, which were found in and around a large basin. Researchers believe some depict mythological scenes and may once have decorated the part of the sanctuary’s façade overlooking the basin. The quantity of fragments is especially noteworthy because surviving Roman sculptures are rarely found in Chartres.

The basin itself, more than six feet deep and lined with white marble, was discovered, along with two additional basins, in 2022. This year, archaeologists uncovered a platform on its eastern side that was reached by steps and separated from the water by a balustrade. They also found a drain connected to the platform by a pipe, suggesting a system for controlling water.

An opening in the basin’s western side appears to have provided access to the water, perhaps so visitors could perform a ritual cleansing before proceeding further into the sanctuary. Further research will be needed to determine the relationship between basin, platform, and surrounding architecture.

The city of Chartres and C’Chartres Archéologie offered rare public access to the excavations this past September during the 2026 European Heritage Days.