A hobbyist’s keen eye and modern technology have led to a significant archaeological discovery: evidence of four previously unknown Roman military marching camps in northwestern Germany. This finding challenges existing historical understandings of the Roman Empire’s reach into Germanic territories during the third century CE.
The Discovery
In 2020, Michael Barkowski, an amateur archaeologist, noticed unusual rectangular formations in satellite imagery near Aken, Saxony-Anhalt. Suspecting they were Roman marching camps – temporary fortified structures built by legions at the end of each day’s march – he alerted professional archaeologists. Subsequent aerial surveys confirmed his suspicion, revealing not one, but four distinct camps dating back to the early 200s CE.
This is an unusual discovery because it pushes the confirmed Roman military presence further north than previously thought. While historical texts hinted at Roman incursions deeper into Germania, physical evidence had been lacking. These camps now fill that gap.
What Were Roman Marching Camps?
Roman legions were renowned for their discipline and logistical precision. Their marching camps were no exception. Typically rectangular with rounded corners, these fortifications were designed for rapid construction and defense. Each camp featured a titulum —a bank and ditch outside the main gate intended to slow down attackers. Camps varied in size, accommodating around 300 soldiers each, with the commanding officer’s tent at the center.
These weren’t permanent settlements; they were temporary bases established during military campaigns, leaving behind minimal but telling traces for modern archaeologists to find.
Historical Context
The Roman Empire began conquering parts of present-day Germany under Emperor Augustus around 13 CE, but faced a major defeat that forced a withdrawal after 30 years. By the third century, Rome renewed its military efforts against increasingly organized Germanic tribes.
The relationship between Rome and Germania was complex, shifting between outright conquest, punitive raids, and even negotiated settlements. These new camps suggest a deeper and more aggressive push into Germanic territory than previously documented.
Evidence and Artifacts
Between 2024 and 2025, archaeologists conducted ground surveys at the newly identified sites, recovering over 1,500 artifacts, predominantly made of iron. This included Roman coins, as well as a surprisingly large number of nails and bolts believed to have been used to reinforce soldiers’ sandals for better traction. Radiocarbon dating confirms these objects date back to the era of Emperor Caracalla’s military campaign in Germany.
The discovery strengthens theories based on written accounts and fragmented archaeological finds, providing concrete evidence where only speculation existed before.
The Role of Citizen Science
This breakthrough underscores the growing importance of citizen science and freely available aerial imagery in archaeological research. Barkowski’s observation, combined with modern surveying techniques, has rewritten a small but significant chapter in Roman military history.
The discovery of these Roman marching camps provides tangible proof of a deeper Roman military presence in Germania than previously understood, a testament to the power of collaboration between amateur enthusiasts and professional archaeologists.
