Ancient Roman Road with Porticoes and Rare Artifacts Discovered in Switzerland

Arkeonews ^ | May 6, 2025 | Oguz Kayra

[SunkenCiv]

A major rescue excavation in Kaiseraugst, northern Switzerland, has revealed a substantial Roman road complete with porticoes, alongside poignant infant burials and a collection of intriguing artifacts, including a remarkably rare bronze panther statuette...

The extensive excavation, conducted by the Aargau Cantonal Archaeology Department between May 2024 and March 2025, was necessitated by an upcoming construction project involving the development of two previously undeveloped plots for multi-family housing. Situated within the lower town of ancient Augusta Raurica, the site's proximity to a known Late Roman burial ground prompted meticulous planning, informed by earlier geophysical surveys in 2019, 2021, and 2023. This pre-excavation work enabled archaeologists to strategically target their efforts, even allowing for adjustments to the excavation plan to preserve nearby Late Roman burials.

The unearthed Roman road, measuring approximately 13 feet (nearly 4 meters) in width, showcased evidence of multiple renovations over time. Flanked by drainage ditches and colonnaded porticoes on both sides, the road provided a clear illustration of Roman infrastructure and sophisticated urban design. Excavations also revealed the cellars of two adjacent buildings, identified as strip houses – narrow dwellings fronting the road, a prevalent architectural style in the northwestern Roman provinces. The layout of these houses suggests ease of access to the thoroughfare, highlighting the importance of the road in the community's fabric.

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TOPICS: History; Science; Travel
KEYWORDS: aargau; aargaucanton; augustaraurica; godsgravesglyphs; kaiseraugst; oguzkayra; romanempire; switzerland

[SunkenCiv]

A surprising discovery was a small, intricately detailed bronze panther statuette.

Credit: Kanton Aargau

[SunkenCiv]

[stanne]

A lot of discoveries of underground terrains and artifacts lately

I’m blaming Trump

[DannyTN]

So “Porticoes” is a covered porch?

What about bathrooms

Lack of bathrooms is a serious impediment to time travel.

[BroJoeK]

Roman Portico lined streets:

[Ann Archy]

THAT’S in Switzerland???

[tumblindice]

Potesne quadratum parcere, civis?

[Cincinnatus.45-70]

Thanks, SunkenCiv.

[SunkenCiv]

My pleasure.

[dfwgator]

Apart from that, what have the Romans ever done for us?

[DannyTN]