Roman watchtower in a church

Where better to start a walk through the Roman past than on top of the highest point of Klimmen? This is the place where the Holy Remigius Church now stands, but where in all probability a Roman watchtower once stood.

The assumption that this was indeed a former Roman tower does not come out of the blue. For example, the location of the church (and thus the watchtower at the time) seems strategically an ideal spot on the highest point of Klimmen. With a view over the Via Belgica and the Geul valley, the Romans could oversee the surroundings and keep an eye on the enemy. And that is not all: the presence of other Roman finds also points to the Roman past of this building. In the church, traces of Roman building material have been found.

Sufficient evidence? Who can say. In any case, there is enough information to bring your imagination to life and look at the church through a different lens. Don’t forget to enjoy the wide view of the basin of the city of Heerlen from here.

Do you want to experience the Roman watchtower in virtual reality? Walk to the Archeo Spear Route and download the app!

Want to know more about Limburg’s history and archaeology? Visit the website of Archeoroute here.