Archeologists discover ancient Roman road leading to Domplein in Utrecht

Archaeologists have discovered a road in Utrecht that led to the Traiectum fortress in Roman times, which was built about 2,000 years ago on the site of the current Domplein. The discovery was made last week during archeological research in connection with upcoming construction work, the municipality of Utrecht reported on Wednesday. According to the municipality, the find is “of great importance for our knowledge of Roman Utrecht and the border community around it.”

The northern border of the Roman Empire went straight through the Netherlands, past the Rijn River. Part of these so-called limes (the Latin word for border) was a meters-wide gravel road, which the municipality of Utrecht also calls the "A1 of the Roman Netherlands," because the road was important for things like troop movements and message traffic.

Romans built things like forts to strengthen the limes, as can still be seen in present-day Utrecht. The road that archaeologists recently discovered there was a branch of the lime road that probably led to that fort.

In addition to the road, archeologists also found part of a harness for carts or wagons. A decorated, solid silver head, probably a hair needle, was also unearthed.

"The discovery of this once again shows that it is important to conduct archaeological research at an early stage of spatial development," said Utrecht alderwoman Rachel Streefland, who works on heritage for the city. "This information is used more than once in the further development of the city. In this way, heritage connects the past with the present."