From fairytale castles and ancient ruins to impressive military defense lines: our country boasts countless historical icons, but there is only one place where a Roman military base blends so seamlessly with an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.
About a 35-minute drive from Amsterdam lies Castellum Hoge Woerd, the most complete Roman complex in the Netherlands. Here, you can walk along the ancient imperial border, coming face-to-face with a 2,000-year-old Roman ship.
Roman foundations on UNESCO-designated land
Whereas you might expect to find mainly medieval castles and moated fortresses in the Netherlands, a mighty Roman military base was established at this site over two thousand years ago. Here, hundreds of soldiers guarded the northern border of the Roman Empire along what was then the Rhine.
To avoid damaging the precious archaeological treasures buried in the ground, the site was first raised before the impressive fort was rebuilt. Today, you can take a unique walk here on an official UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The secret of a 2,000-year-old Roman shipwreck
Deeply hidden in the clay of Utrecht for centuries lay one of the most extraordinary archaeological finds in our country. When you step into the museum, you’re immediately face to face with De Meern: an impressive Roman ship 25 meters long.
When the ship ran aground on a sandbar in the second century, the crew hastily abandoned everything. Because the clay sealed the wreck airtight, even the entire cargo of wooden tools and personal belongings has remained intact to this day.
A free cultural hotspot within the fortress walls
Behind the fort’s sturdy wooden ramparts, you won’t find dusty museum halls, but a vibrant gathering place full of life. Centuries-old history blends effortlessly here with an intimate theater, a cozy café-restaurant, and an educational urban farm.
You can climb to the top of the defensive walls for a stunning view, or wander through the interactive museum spaces for free. This is how a former Roman military base has been transformed into a surprisingly versatile day trip for young and old alike.
