In late November 2024, during archaeological investigations conducted in Heerlen (Netherlands), an exceptional discovery was made: the tomb of a Roman soldier named Flaccus. This find, dating to the late 1st century BCE and early 1st century CE, represents one of the most significant pieces of evidence of Roman presence in the area. It is the first time a tomb from this period has been found in the region with a name associated, making it even more extraordinary.
The team of archaeologists from ADC ArcheoProjecten uncovered a cavity filled with remains related to the earliest Roman occupation of Heerlen at the Raadhuisplein (municipal square). The shape of the remains and the materials found indicated it was a Roman burial site. Among the unearthed items were ceramic pieces and personal utensils that provided crucial information about the deceased’s identity.
One of the most notable finds was a bowl bearing the inscription “FLAC”, an abbreviation identified by specialists as a reference to the name Flaccus. Alongside this bowl, a bronze tool used for scraping skin and four ceramic plates were also recovered. Analysis of the objects revealed that they originated in Italy, corroborating Flaccus’ connection to the Roman army. This combination of elements makes the discovery not only the oldest of its kind in Heerlen but also one of the few that allows for the identification of a specific individual from that era.
During Roman times, present-day Heerlen was known as Coriovallum and was strategically located at the crossroads of two major routes, the Via Belgica and the Via Trajana. These roads facilitated trade and military movement, making Coriovallum a key location within the Roman Empire. The Raadhuisplein, where the discovery was made, was central to this community and remains a site where over 2,000 years of history converge.
The new findings provide valuable insights into how the city’s earliest inhabitants lived and their relationship with the Roman Empire. Flaccus’ tomb not only confirms the presence of Roman soldiers in the region but also shows how these individuals were integrated into local society. The wealth of objects found suggests that Flaccus likely held a privileged status within the community.
Archaeological work at the Raadhuisplein is ongoing and will continue for several more days. Each new discovery broadens our understanding of Heerlen’s Roman roots, uncovering details that were once thought lost to time. These efforts not only preserve the city’s historical memory but also connect its current residents with their past, highlighting Coriovallum’s importance as a site of historical and cultural significance.
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