Upper-German-Limes
The Upper-German-Limes refers to the northern section of the Limes Germanicus, a vast defensive frontier system built by the Roman Empire to protect its provinces from Germanic incursions. This section, specifically, stretches from the Rhine River at Rheinbrohl to the Danube River near Eining in Germany.
History and Construction
- Construction Period: The construction of the Upper-German-Limes began in the late 1st century AD, with significant expansions and fortifications occurring in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD under emperors like Hadrian and Antoninus Pius.
- Purpose: The primary function was to delineate and protect the Roman province of Germania Superior from raids by the neighboring Germanic tribes.
- Structure: The Upper-German-Limes consisted of:
- A palisade or a wall made from earth or stone.
- A ditch in front of the wall to impede direct attacks.
- Watchtowers and forts at regular intervals for surveillance and garrisoning troops.
- Small fortlets known as burgi for quick reaction forces.
Key Features
- Forts: More than 90 forts were established along this stretch, with notable ones including Saalburg, which has been extensively restored and serves as an open-air museum.
- Watchtowers: Approximately 1,000 watchtowers were constructed, offering a clear line of sight for communication and early warning systems.
- Civilian Settlements: Alongside the military installations, civilian settlements or vici grew, providing services and goods to the soldiers.
Decline and Legacy
- Abandonment: The Upper-German-Limes was largely abandoned in the late 3rd century AD due to shifts in Roman military strategy and external pressures from barbarian invasions.
- UNESCO Recognition: In 2005, the Upper-German-Limes was designated as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the Raetian Limes, highlighting its importance in the study of Roman frontier policies and military engineering.
Visiting the Upper-German-Limes
- Today, visitors can explore several well-preserved sections, reconstructed forts, and museums dedicated to the Roman presence in Germany. Key sites include:
External Links
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