In the foothills of the Alps in Switzerland, archaeologists have unearthed the ruins of Roman fortifications that date back 2,000 years.
Wall discovery in Swiss Alps called an 'archaeological sensation'ADA Zug, David Jecker
The walls that previously shielded a Roman building complex were discovered in Cham, a canton or state in central Switzerland, during the excavation of a gravel pit. Archaeologists have also discovered other artifacts, such as a plaster wall, iron nails, and bits of gold. Along with things like bowls, grinding millstones, glassware, crockery, and amphorae, which are ceramic jugs.
The Office for the Preservation of Monuments and Archeology described the discoveries as a "archaeological sensation" for the area and said they may provide information about Roman involvement in central Switzerland.
Roman structures of a similar size were last uncovered in Cham-Heiligkreuz nearly a century ago, according to Gishan Schaeren, head of the Prehistory and Protohistoric Archaeology Department. The fact that the top bricks could even be seen above ground astounded us as well.
The walls cover at least 5,300 square feet (500 square meters) of space. It is unknown how the Romans used the location, including whether it was a "villa with a view or a temple building," according to Christa Ebnöther, professor of archaeology of the Roman provinces at the University of Bern.
According to the study, evidence of Roman dinnerware known as terra sigillata, or "sealed earth" in Latin, was discovered, indicating the location was frequented by affluent individuals. The amphorae, which ordinarily contained liquids like wine, olive oil, and fish sauce, are proof that Roman traders in the area conducted business with people in the Mediterranean.
Several copper and bronze coins were also discovered by archaeologists, as well as a Julius Caesar-minted silver denarius from the first century B.C.
The Roman fortifications were not the only antique artifact found there. In the past, researchers have discovered the remnants of a middle Bronze Age settlement, late Bronze Age burials, and a handful of Celt-era coins.
