Ancient Roman military camp discovered in Swiss Alps

A remarkable archaeological find has emerged in the Swiss Alps, where researchers uncovered a Roman military camp dating back 2,000 years. This site, situated at an elevation of 7,200 feet, was strategically positioned to oversee a known battlefield located approximately 2,950 feet below. The camp, which dates to the first century B.C., was fortified with three ditches and a rampart, indicating its importance in military operations during Roman times. The discovery was made in 2023 by a volunteer detectorist utilizing lidar technology, which employs lasers to create detailed topographical maps. Prior to this, the existence of the camp was unknown, with researchers only aware of the battlefield below. The findings suggest that Roman forces would have had to navigate challenging mountain passes to reach this elevated site, highlighting the logistical challenges faced by the military. Further exploration of the area has yielded numerous artifacts, including weapons, slingshots, and shoe nails, which provide insight into the daily life and military practices of Roman soldiers. Notably, some slingshots bear the stamp of the third legion, a unit known to have engaged in battles at the nearby battlefield, establishing a direct connection between the camp and military activities in the region. This discovery not only enhances our understanding of Roman military strategy but also emphasizes the significance of the Swiss Alps in ancient military history. The findings contribute to the broader narrative of Roman expansion and the challenges of maintaining control over distant territories.