Archaeologists have unearthed a “sensational,” priceless trove of Ancient Roman artifacts at a military camp perched 3,000 feet above the site of a renowned battle. Partnering with the Graubünden Archaeological Service, researchers ascended the Alps in 2021 to excavate the Colm la Runga area.
Reportedly, this was the location where Roman forces clashed with local Suanetes tribes in a fierce struggle to seize control of the mountain range overlooking Italy.
According to an official report, the researchers’ ambitious quest yielded more rewards than anticipated, as they ventured even higher into the majestic mountains, putting themselves in the mindset of the ancient Romans. They observed the possible remains of a related site.
Remarkably, it was a camp strategically located 3,000 feet above the battlefield (7,200 feet above sea level) that provided the Romans with a commanding view of the valleys and passes. This discovery opened new insights into their brilliant military strategy, which has stood the test of time.
A new military base discovered in the Swiss Alps
Beginning in 2021, researchers from the Vindonissa Professorship at the University of Basel, supported by the Archaeological Service of Graubünden, initiated the exploration of an ancient battlefield and its surroundings. Such exploration had never been undertaken before.
A wealth of artifacts, including sling bullets bearing the stamp of the Roman 3rd legion, spearheads, shoe nails, and a silver and brass dagger, as noted by Popular Mechanics , indicated to researchers that they might have discovered a site of sensational importance.
Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology, instrumental in recent archaeological breakthroughs, confirmed the presence of ditches and ramparts beneath the surface. These findings revealed the site as a long-hidden military camp unknown for over 2,000 years.
Located 7,000 feet above sea level, researchers concluded that the military base served as more than just an outpost for a single battle. It was part of a broader location integral to a comprehensive campaign to secure and fortify Northern Italy.
In 15 BCE, the Roman Empire clashed with the Raeti—a confederation of Alpine or Suanetes tribes related to the Etruscans, as noted by Pliny. Overcome by the Romans, the battle and site marked a pivotal moment in Ancient Roman history, signifying their control of the region, Archeology Mag says.
Experts can study Roman military strategy in stunning new detail
In recent years, archaeologists have ascended the heights to study the remnants of a fierce historical scene that unfolded in the breathtakingly beautiful Swiss Alps, renowned for their pristine air.
Until this discovery, archaeologists did not anticipate encountering such a significant development in the historical narrative—specifically, a military base. This was no ordinary base with relics and weapons ; it signified a sustained Roman presence and effort to control the Alps.
As stated in an official statement , “Roman Switzerland continues to hold great surprises.” Experts can now trace the movements of Roman troop with unprecedented precision, “from Bergell over the Septimer Pass to the Tiefencastel area – and from there on towards Chur and the Alpine Rhine Valley.”
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