Xanten Arena 27.7.19
Our destination today is the Xanten Archaeological Park which is a reminder of how far the tentacles of the Roman Empire reached. The teams are undertaking huge reconstruction of the former structures on site – commencing with the Arena which at the time of our visit was very much the prime exhibit.
Colonia Ulpia Traiana is the Roman name for the place and it was one of the largest cities in the Germanic provinces with, at its peak over 10,000 men, women and children residing here at the northern borders of the Empire. The Romans initially arrived in around 13 or 12 BC, with a legion always based in the area. The city covered around 180 acres and the city reached its largest extent in around the 2nd century AD. As a Colonia the residents were granted full Roman citizenship and Roman laws applied in place of Germanic. The Colonia was originally on the Rhine itself, but changing watercourses led to it becoming remote from the river. The Colonia was over run by Franks in the third century with the stones being re-used for new buildings.
Latrines Xanten 27.7.19
The reconstruction work covers the baths and latrines and since the visit I can see that even more now exists.
City Gate Xanten 27.7.19
Moving away from the Roman City the Klever Tor was constructed in 1393 as part of the medieval fortification of the city, most of which has since been removed. It is now used for holiday accommodation – a far cry from earlier use as a house of detention. Post WWII damage it had undergone some reconstruction.
Xanten St Viktor 27.7.19
We also had time to pass by the Xanten Cathedral before returning to the boat for our lunchtime departure.