Ancient Roman military camp discovered in Swiss mountains

A remarkable archaeological discovery was made in the Swiss Alps, where a Roman military camp dating back 2,000 years was found at an elevation of 7,200 feet. This site, located in the Colm la Runga corridor near the border of Switzerland and northern Italy, is believed to have played a crucial role during a battle between Roman forces and a local tribe. The camp's strategic position provided a vantage point over a battlefield situated 2,950 feet below, allowing soldiers to monitor enemy movements effectively. The discovery was initiated by a volunteer detectorist who identified a terrain structure that turned out to be a defensive wall. Researchers from the University of Basel utilized advanced Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to create three-dimensional models of the terrain, revealing the camp's fortifications, which included three ditches and a defensive wall. This layout indicates that the Romans were well-prepared for potential conflicts in the area. Artifacts uncovered at the site, such as arrowheads and slingshots, provide insight into the military operations of the Roman legions stationed there. Notably, some slingshots bore the stamp of the Imperial Roman army's third legion, which was involved in the battle against the Suanetes tribe. This evidence suggests a significant military presence in the region during the Roman Empire's expansion efforts. The findings underscore the importance of archaeological research in Switzerland, highlighting the ongoing revelations about Roman history in the area. The discovery not only enhances our understanding of Roman military strategies but also illustrates the complexities of their interactions with local tribes during their quest for dominance in the region.