Archaeologists Discover Roman-Era Military Camp 7,000 Feet Above Sea Level

Archaeologists have discovered an ancient Roman military encampment high atop a mountain range in the Swiss Alps located between eastern Switzerland and northern Italy, Live Science reported.

A “volunteer detectorist” discovered the site in 2023 located about 7,200 feet above sea level and overlooking a Roman-era battlefield. Experts from the Canton of Graubünden believe it dates back to the first century B.C. Researchers had previously identified the field as the first-known Roman battle site in Switzerland, but the camp itself remained undiscovered until recently. The site was the location of a battle between Roman forces and the Suanetes tribe as the former attempted to overtake all available land.

Scientists at Switzerland’s University of Basel used Light Detection and Ranging lasers to create 3D models of the terrain, which revealed that the encampment was fortified with three ditches and a defensive wall, also known as a rampart. Archaeologists explained that the “sensational discovery” was in a “strategically favorable location” when it came to conflict.

Also found at the site were a wealth of artifacts from so-called “Roman Switzerland,” such as shoe nails, arrowheads, and weapons, as well as equipment and gear belonging to soldiers. Included amongst the finds were slingshots embossed with the stamp of the Roman army’s third legion, an Imperial Roman army which is known to have fought upon the battlefield below.

“The sensational discovery of a Roman military camp in Graubünden once again underlines the fact that archaeological research in 'Roman Switzerland' continues to produce wonderful surprises,” researchers said in a statement.