Home / Science / Oldest Roman Grave Discovery Rewrites Heerlen History
Oldest Roman Grave Discovery Rewrites Heerlen History
12 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Ancient tomb with cremated remains found near Heerlen's Raadhuisplein.
- Engraved bowls revealed the tomb belonged to Roman soldier Flaccus.
- The find dates to year 0, making it Heerlen's oldest known Roman grave.
An extraordinary archaeological find has been made in Heerlen, unearthing what is now recognized as the oldest Roman grave in the town, dating back to the year 0. Excavations near Raadhuisplein initially suggested a cellar but soon revealed themselves to be a tomb.
Key artifacts, including pottery from Italy and a bronze skin scraper, alongside engraved clay bowls bearing the abbreviation 'FLAC' for Flaccus, confirmed the identity of the interred as a Roman soldier. This discovery provides the first named individual from such an early period in Heerlen's history.
The tomb's location near historical roads highlights the area's significance as Coriovallum, an important Roman settlement. This find offers unique evidence of Roman habitation and will be displayed at the Roman Museum of Heerlen.
