Roman Tongeren

Most of the legacy of the Roman occupiers is safely stored away in the Gallo-Roman Museum, which is home to a treasure trove of Roman relicts. However, there are still visible traces of our Roman forefathers in Tongeren’s city centre and surrounding municipalities.

Roman city wall

The defensive wall, built in the 2nd century, is no less than 6 metres high, 2 metres thick and 4544 metres long. It still surrounds part of the city. Discover this Roman relic on the green Milestone Route, which also takes you past the temple and Plinius Park.

Tip: The best-preserved parts are located in Caesarlaan and Legioenenlaan.

Roman temple site

We delve further into the past. At the end of the 1st century, the Romans built a temple here on the northern edges of the city. We are not sure which Roman deity the temple was dedicated to, or whether it was used for the imperial cult. Today, a modern structure inspired by the temple gives you an idea of its grandeur. 

Plinius Park and aqueduct

Just outside the city centre, you'll find a hidden gem: Roman vestiges nestled in a green setting! Over 2000 years ago, the Roman scholar Pliny the Elder mentioned an 'exceptional spring in Tongeren'. The famous Plinius Spring and its surroundings became a popular spa. This area has been transformed into a city park where you can walk, cycle, jog, rollerblade, and even swim! The open-air swimming pool is a testament to the fact that water is still the main attraction in this park.

Beukenberg

Roman aqueduct - This beautiful walking area near the city centre is the remnant of a Roman aqueduct. The artificial earth embankment used to contain wooden water basins and provided Tongeren with drinking water. It is recognised as a protected archaeological monument, the largest in Belgium.

Tumuli

Just outside the centre, you can find the remains of several tumuli, or Roman burial grounds. The tumulus on the Roman road is a Gallo-Roman burial mound dating from the 1st - 3rd century. The Herstappe tomb is located alongside Hoeise Kassei in Lauw, a borough of Tongeren.