Photo: Historic Martigny Switzerland

The historic city of Martigny surrounded by the Alps in Switzerland, Europe.

Martigny in Switzerland can truly be classed as a historic city. In the 1st century Martigny was called Octodurus and mentioned in Julius Caesar's writings. The city was an 'oppidum' (a main settlement) of the Veragrii, a Celtic tribe.Roman ruins have been discovered over the centuries and in the east side of the city of Martigny a Roman amphitheatre was restored in 1978. Today, every autumn 'cow fights' are held in the amphitheatre. The Heren strain of cows have an aggressive nature and for centuries the breeders of Valais (have vied for the honour of owning 'la reine', the winning cow.The historic city of Martigny is the capital of the district of Martigny in Valais, which is one of the 26 cantons or federal states of Switzerland. In 1976 Roman temple foundations were uncovered in the south-east area of Martigny and the Fondation Pierre Gianadda was erected over the temple. Art exhibitions are held here as well as the permanent Gallo-Roman Museum and Automobile Museum. ... continue below the picture...

... Martigny in Switzerland is a French-speaking city and sits at the crossroads of Italy, France and Switzerland.City of Martigny, Switzerland, Europe.