A remarkably well-preserved Celtic princely tomb gives Lavau a clear archaeological focus. During a preventive archaeological excavation at the ZAC du Moutot in Lavau, INRAP uncovered the burial site. Its location on the Melda and other features, including sports, shopping and local events, offer additional reasons to visit.
The princely tomb and two dates
The princely complex included a square enclosure and a monumental portico leading to the burial site via a ramp. The deceased was buried in a chariot in the burial chamber. Grave goods include gold bracelets, a bronze cauldron and Attic pottery. The furnishings and architecture give the find a distinctive character in addition to its date.
The Lavau necropolis was founded in the 14th century BC; the princely tomb, by contrast, dates from the beginning of the 5th century BC. These two dates refer to different periods. The material culture of the princely tomb appears to combine Celtic and Mediterranean techniques and stylistic traditions. This possible connection adds a cultural interpretation to the archaeological history without presenting it as certain.
Riverside setting and landscape
Lavau lies on the banks of the Melda. The protohistoric necropolis at the ZAC du Moutot is located at the edge of the Seine Valley, on a small rise on the right bank. This makes it possible to consider the town’s riverside setting and the archaeological site’s precise position in the landscape separately.
The leisure centre connects residential areas with pastureland and areas used for agriculture and forestry. Alongside the archaeological theme, this also brings settlement and cultivated landscapes into focus. Those looking to understand Lavau will find more than one historical point of reference: the town is also defined by its riverside setting and varied land use.
Sports and shopping
The tourism description for Palatium Sport & Life, updated on 24 March 2025, lists more than ten padel courts, as well as beach tennis and Fun Fitness. Check the details of the facilities before your trip. A description updated in June 2026 lists a 25-hectare site for Decathlon Village, with an indoor sports complex, hammam and spa, and a fitness club. As the setup may change, confirm the details before your visit.
Village de Marques is an outlet centre in the municipality of Lavau. The tenant mix may change; if you are making a special trip for a particular offering, check the current selection in advance. This will help you plan a shopping visit around your interests without assuming that any particular stores will be there.
Events and getting there
Local associations organise a celebration on 14 July and a village festival in autumn. Check dates and details locally before planning your trip around them. This is especially helpful if an event is the deciding factor in choosing your travel dates.
By road, Lavau is directly connected to the eastern ring road; the D78 links the town to Troyes. Check current traffic conditions for your chosen arrival time. These road connections alone do not establish a specific journey time.
If your plans depend on an association festival or a leisure offering that may change, check the dates or current details against your travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Argancon, Les Croûtes, Celles-Sur-Ource, Isle-Aumont, La Loge-Aux-Chèvres, Couvignon, La Villeneuve-au-Châtelot, Chavanges.
For the regional travel overview: Aube.
