Archaeologists in Germany have uncovered the remains of a Roman fortress believed to have stood for over 1,700 years, serving as a bulwark against incursions by barbarian tribes.
The fortress, known as a castrum, lay concealed beneath a cobblestone street in Aachen, Western Germany, for more than a century before recent excavations brought it to light. Led by sk ArcheoConsult, the project revealed the well-preserved remnants of the Roman fortification, unmistakably identified by its construction methods and materials.
“The concrete-like mortar and choice of rock unequivocally point to Roman origins,” explained archaeologist Donata Kyritz. The wall, dating back to the third century, spans approximately 23 feet in length and 35 inches in width, with its full extent yet to be determined.
Experts speculate that the wall may have formed part of a circular defensive perimeter encircling the city, possibly featuring gateways akin to those found in similar Roman fortresses across Germany. Andreas Schaub, an archaeologist involved in the excavation, highlighted the defensive nature of the castrum, erected in response to Germanic tribal raids around 275-276 A.D.
The presence of pottery fragments, animal bones, and traces of a potential roadway further enriches the archaeological significance of the site. Notably, a layer of pebbles suggests the presence of pavement, indicative of the bustling activity within the fortress.
While the exact function of the castrum remains subject to ongoing research, its role in safeguarding against external threats underscores the strategic importance of Roman military infrastructure in maintaining control over frontier territories.
Upon completion of excavations, construction efforts will resume at the site, preserving and honoring the legacy of this ancient Roman stronghold amidst modern development.