Identity known: Roman grave is that of soldier Flaccus
The Roman grave that was found at the end of November 2024 during the archaeological research on the Raadhuisplein in Heerlen is of a Roman soldier named Flaccus. The find from the year 0 is the most unique evidence of Roman habitation at this location. Never before have we found a Roman grave from this period with a name.
Last week, archaeologists from ADC ArcheoProjecten stumbled upon a remarkable pit full of remains of the first settlement in Heerlen during their research on the Raadhuisplein. The shape of the traces and the material found indicate that it is a grave from Roman times. Personal items and earthenware dishes with his name on them were found in the grave.
Identity known
Specialized archaeologists have determined that it belonged to a Roman soldier named Flaccus. This can be deduced from the abbreviation FLAC, which is carved into a bowl that was found in the grave. In addition to the bowl, the researchers also found a bronze skin scraper and four different plates. The pottery, which comes from Italy, confirms that Flaccus was a Roman soldier. It is a unique find because it is not only the oldest Roman grave in Heerlen, but also because no name was known there before.
Story of Heerlen
The Raadhuisplein, located near the historical roads Via Belgica and Via Traiana, was an important location in the middle of the Roman settlement Coriovallum, the Heerlen of that time. The new finds offer new insights into the residential history of the city. The square is a unique place where 2000 years of history come together and the complete story of Heerlen is revealed bit by bit.
The archaeological research on the Raadhuisplein will continue until next week. These special discoveries contribute to a deeper understanding of Heerlen's rich past and its Roman origins.