The first forge in Lavardin dates from around 800 BC and here in Lavardin's forges the Gauls made weapons in their fight against the Roman Conquest of France by Julius Caesar. The foundations and some low walls are the only evidence of the small Gallic fort just beyond the Chateau. But the druid priests left a more visible impact on the land. Here in the high cliffs above the Loir River, they cut a series of five cave complexes from the living stone. The most famous is called Caves des Vierges (Cave of Virgins).