Artifacts offer a glimpse into the lives of Roman citizens and legions. In buildings faithful to the originals, history comes to life for everyone. Visitors can learn about trade routes, key military bases, and cities within the empire’s territory in the region.
A walk through the LVR Roman Museum in Xanten is like opening a living history book. Roman citizens like Titus or Marcus stand before you in white tunics as display cases containing valuable ceramic bowls and documents come into view. Legionnaires march in formation as your gaze falls on the ancient armor and weapons. With your marching gear, you’re ready to set off right away—fortunately, it’s available for try-on at the museum.
The museum’s exhibits are filled with compelling stories of historical events, told through archaeological finds. Through interactive stations, the museum illustrates what it meant to be a craftsman, an envoy, or a soldier. Faithful reconstructions of buildings reinforce this impression. Information panels and audio recordings make it clear that the Romans were a culturally advanced people. They established cities and camps at key locations throughout North Rhine-Westphalia.
Since 2008, the Roman Museum in Xanten has been nestled within an archaeological park that features city walls, a harbor temple, and a colossal amphitheater. The museum at Siegfriedstraße 39 was built on the walls of the Basilica Thermarum, which served as the entrance hall to the public baths of the port city of Colonia Ulpia Traiana—one of the largest settlements on the Rhine.
The permanent exhibition features over 2,500 artifacts spread across approximately 2,000 square meters, taking visitors on a journey from the time of Caesar to the Frankish period. Visitors can look forward to seeing the remains of a Roman ship, wall paintings, and a cannon.
The LWL Roman Museum in Haltern as an Alternative
Those more interested in the development of a military base will find the LWL Roman Museum in Haltern to be the perfect destination. This is where the Romans fought the Germanic tribes led by Arminius. This is also where the 19th Legion was stationed, the very legion that would be destroyed in the Battle of Varus.
At Weseler Straße 100, the most significant finds from ancient Roman camps along the Lippe River are on display. Across 1,000 square meters, some 1,200 exhibits offer a glimpse into the lives of the legionaries along an important transportation route.
From late March through late October, visitors are also invited to tour the Aliso Roman archaeological site. The team has reconstructed parts of graves, walls, and the gate complex of a Roman camp made of earth and wood at the original location.
