Arnay-le-Duc was the location of the worship of the Celtic god Abilus, who was associated with the goddess Damona.
Battle of Arnay-le-Duc on 27 June 1570: During the French Wars of Religion the Catholic armies of Artus de Cossé-Brissac (Marshal of Cossé) were beaten by the Protestant armies of Gaspard II de Coligny.