Auscii facts for kids
The Auscii were an ancient group of people, also called Ausci. They lived in a region called Aquitania, which is now part of southwestern France. They lived there during the Iron Age, a time when people started using iron tools and weapons. Their main home was near where the city of Auch is today.
The Auscii were known as one of the strongest tribes in Aquitania. They were as powerful as another important group called the Tarbelli.
What's in a Name?
Ancient writers like Julius Caesar, Pliny the Elder, and Strabo wrote about the Auscii. They called them Ausci or Au̓skíois. These old writings help us learn about them today.
The name Auscii might be linked to the word eusk-. This word means 'Basque' in the Basque language (euskara). This suggests a connection to the Basque people.
The modern city of Auch gets its name from this ancient tribe. In old times, it was called civitas Auscius, meaning 'city of the Auscii'.
Where They Lived
The Auscii lived in a specific area of Aquitania. Their land was north of the Onobrisates tribe. To their west were the Cambolectri and Volcae Tectosages. The Lactorates lived to their south, and the Atures to their west.
Their most important town was called Elimberrum. Today, this town is known as Auch. The name Elimberrum might come from the Basque words ili-berri, which mean 'new town'.
Their Culture and Language
Historians believe the Auscii spoke a language called Aquitanian language. This language was an early form of the Basque language. It shows how the Basque language has very old roots in this region.
See Also
In Spanish: Auscos para niños
- Aquitani
- Gallia Aquitania
