Diablintes

Who were the Diablintes?

The Diablintes were a Gallic tribe living in what is now north Mayenne, France, during the Iron Age and into the Roman period. They are mentioned by several ancient authors under various names. The Diablintes were one of several groups called Aulerci, though the exact relationship between these groups is unclear. Their identity was tied to their territory and their main settlement, known in Roman times as Civitas Diablintum, now identified with the archaeological site at Jublains.

Where did the Diablintes live?

The Diablintes lived in a small territory in the north of the modern Mayenne department, in western France. Their main town was at Jublains, near the Aron river, a tributary of the Mayenne. This area is characterized by rolling countryside and river valleys. Ancient sources place their land near other Gallic tribes such as the Cenomani and Rhedones.

What language did the Diablintes speak?

The sources do not state what language the Diablintes spoke, but as a Gallic tribe, they likely spoke a Celtic language related to those of neighboring peoples. No direct records of their language survive, and the meaning of their name is uncertain.

How was Diablintes society organised?

Little is known from the sources about the social structure of the Diablintes. As with other Gallic tribes, they were likely organized around clans or extended families, with local leaders or chiefs. Their links to other Aulerci groups suggest some broader ethnic or political connections, but the details are not clear.

The history of the Diablintes

The Diablintes are first mentioned by Julius Caesar as allies of the Veneti and other Armorican states during his campaigns in Gaul. Their territory was small and may have once been part of a larger group before becoming distinct. Under Roman rule, their main settlement became known as Civitas Diablintum, now Jublains, where significant Roman remains have been found. Ancient documents from the 5th and 7th centuries still mention the Diablintes and their city. A wooden tablet found in London records the sale of a Diablintian slave girl, showing their people were taken far from their homeland.

What became of the Diablintes?

The Diablintes no longer exist as a distinct people. Their memory survives through ancient texts and archaeological remains, especially at Jublains. The site is important for understanding the history of the region and the changes brought by Roman rule.

Questions people ask about the Diablintes

Sources and further reading

• Diablintes on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• Wikidata recordOpen data

This page was written with AI assistance from the sources above and checked automatically before publishing. It may contain mistakes, and it is no substitute for hearing from the Diablintes themselves. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.