In June 2025, significant archaeological discoveries were made in Haltern am See, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The findings occurred during excavations preceding the construction of the Laurentius-Campus, a new community and senior center.
Archaeologists unearthed rare artifacts dating back to the Roman era. The site is located northeast of the former Roman camp of Haltern, an important Roman military station from approximately 2,000 years ago.
Among the discoveries was a Terra Rubra shard, belonging to the "Belgian Ware" from northern Gaul. This ceramic is a rare type of bowl, not previously found in the main camp of Haltern. Other finds included Roman boot sole nails, a spearhead, and various everyday items such as Augustan coins, cooking, and tableware.
The excavations were conducted by the archaeological firm EggensteinExca on behalf of the Catholic parish of St. Sixtus Haltern am See, in close collaboration with the LWL-Archaeology for Westphalia. The excavations are expected to be largely completed by early August 2025, with final work continuing alongside the construction of the Laurentius-Campus.
These discoveries underscore the archaeological significance of Haltern as a central site of Roman history in North Rhine-Westphalia. The finds from Haltern am See deepen our understanding of the Roman presence in the region, offering valuable insights into the lives of the legionaries and the military infrastructure over 2,000 years ago.