Augusta Raurica
Aargau
Augusta Raurica is a remarkable Roman archaeological site and open-air museum located on the south bank of the Rhine near Basel, Switzerland. Founded around 44 BC by Lucius Munatius Plancus, it is the oldest known Roman colony on the Rhine, although permanent settlement began after Augustus' conquest circa 15 BC. The colony developed into a significant urban center with a well-planned grid layout including a temple of Jupiter, a forum, and a military fortification. At its peak around 200 AD, Augusta Raurica housed approximately 15,000 inhabitants, making it the largest city in the region. The site features impressive remains such as a large theater, one of the longest Roman sewer systems, and numerous public buildings. Its strategic location on a plateau between the Rhine and Jura Mountains provided natural defenses and access to important trade routes. Today, Augusta Raurica offers visitors a vivid insight into Roman urban life through its archaeological excavations, exhibitions, and cultural events, making it a significant heritage site in Switzerland.
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Consiglio: Visit Augusta Raurica during the warmer months to fully enjoy the open-air museum and outdoor ruins. Consider purchasing tickets in advance for guided tours or special exhibitions. The site offers family-friendly activities and interactive experiences, including Roman crafts and baking workshops. Check the official website for seasonal events and museum day celebrations which often feature free activities.
Fatti interessanti
- •Augusta Raurica is the oldest known Roman colony on the Rhine river.
- •The site includes one of the longest accessible Roman sewer systems.
- •At its peak, the city had about 15,000 inhabitants, making it the largest in the region around 200 AD.
- •The city was built on a natural plateau shaped by two rivers, providing strategic defense and water supply.
- •The layout of the city followed a precise Roman grid plan with streets aligned 36 degrees west of north due to topography.
- •The name Augusta Raurica reflects its founder Augustus and the local Celtic tribe, the Rauraci.
Storia
Founded formally in 44 BC by Lucius Munatius Plancus, Augusta Raurica's permanent settlement was delayed until after Augustus' Alpine conquest around 15 BC.
It grew into a thriving Roman colony and veteran settlement with a population of about 15,000 by 200 AD.
The city was laid out on a triangular plateau with a grid plan centered around a temple of Jupiter and forum.
Around 300 AD, a Roman military fort (castrum) was established nearby, housing troops for about a century.
The settlement declined after the 3rd century and lost prominence by the 7th century as Basel rose in importance.
Archaeological efforts since the 20th century have uncovered extensive ruins and artifacts, preserving its legacy as Switzerland’s oldest Roman colony.
Guida del luogo
Roman Theater2nd century AD
An impressive open-air theater that could seat thousands, showcasing Roman architectural and cultural grandeur. It remains one of the best-preserved ancient theaters in Switzerland.
Main Forum and Temple of Jupiter1st century BC to 1st century AD
The forum was the civic heart of the city, with the Temple of Jupiter as the sacred high point. The temple’s elevated position was the starting point for the city’s street grid.
Roman Castrum (Military Fort)circa 300 AD
Located at the northern apex of the city’s triangular plateau, the castrum was a fortified military camp housing Roman troops for about 100 years from around 300 AD.
Roman Sewer System1st century AD
One of the longest walkable Roman sewer channels, demonstrating advanced Roman engineering and urban infrastructure.
Contatto
Telefono: 061 552 22 22