Ancient Roman soldier's remains found, proving habitation at year zero!
- Archaeologists discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman soldier's grave in Heerlen, Netherlands, during excavations at Raadhuisplein.
- The soldier named Flaccus was identified through carvings found in the grave, along with other significant artifacts linking him to Roman heritage.
- This discovery is the oldest Roman grave in Heerlen and provides definitive evidence of Roman habitation in the area during Emperor Augustus's reign.
In a remarkable archaeological discovery in the Netherlands, a 2,000-year-old Roman soldier's grave was unearthed in Heerlen. This significant find, dating back to around 0 AD, was made last month and provides compelling evidence of Roman habitation during the time of Emperor Augustus. The grave was discovered at Raadhuisplein, Heerlen's town square, which holds historical importance as part of the ancient Roman settlement known as Coriovallum. The excavation revealed crucial artifacts, including a bowl with the name "Flaccus" carved into it, indicating the identity of the soldier buried there. This finding is particularly important because it solidifies the notion of a Roman presence in Heerlen, contrasting with earlier findings of pottery that lacked definitive ties to Roman settlement. Researchers identified items such as four plates and a bronze skin scraper, which were traced back to ancient Italy, further establishing Flaccus's identity as a Roman soldier. Heerlen's council member for culture and heritage, Jordy Clemens, commented on the find, noting its significance in understanding the historical narrative of Roman Heerlen in the Netherlands. The grave's discovery not only enriches the historical context of the area but also emphasizes the need for continued archaeological exploration to understand the region's past thoroughly. The site's strategic location near significant Roman roads, the Via Belgica and Via Traiana, adds to its historical relevance, suggesting that Heerlen played a vital role in the Roman Empire's expansion and administration. Overall, the unearthing of Flaccus's grave marks a groundbreaking moment in Dutch archaeology. It is the oldest Roman grave identified in Heerlen and notably the first to bear a specific name associated with it. This unique find enhances our understanding of the early settlement patterns in the region and provides researchers with new insights into the Roman influence on Dutch soil during the early centuries AD. The ongoing investigatory efforts into this grave site and others like it can help paint a clearer picture of the daily life and culture of Roman soldiers stationed in these far-flung corners of the Empire.