Camille Oostwegel sr., Friend of Via Belgica
Author: Harry Lindelauf
Photography: Philip Driessen
Who, besides Marcus Agrippa, once worked on the Via Belgica, we will never know for sure. But we do know who is putting the Roman past on the map today: the Friends of Via Belgica. Entrepreneurs, volunteers, institutions, and public authorities. By joining forces, they are turning the Via Belgica into a true road of connection. We are pleased to introduce you to some of these Friends. This time: Camille Oostwegel Sr.
“From an early age I have been fascinated by history, nature, and archaeology. My father’s dental practice was on Coriovallum Street in Heerlen, opposite the site of the Roman Baths. During my high school years, I used to dig in the back garden and found Roman tiles there. That strong interest in the Romans has always remained. The Romans brought with them an important part of civilization and culture. Just look at our legal system, or at the sarcophagus of the Lady of Simpelveld. That is one of the most important discoveries from the time of the Roman Empire.”
An Idea becomes reality
Exactly five years ago, during excavations at Château Sint Gerlach, one of the Oostwegel Collection properties, part of the Via Belgica was uncovered. “That’s when the idea was born to really bring history to life.” It is typical of Camille not to leave an idea at just that. Together with the Houthem-Sint Gerlach Historical Society and sponsors, a new section of the Via Belgica was laid out at the edge of the estate’s vegetable garden. The road surface is made of gravel, complete with cart tracks. A replica milestone stands by the road. “Every time I visit, I see people reading the information board. They love it. And I was very happy to contribute to it.”
"My keen interest in the Romans has never faded."— Camille Oostwegel sr.
