Archaeologists have discovered Roman palace in northwestern Germany

Archaeologists have discovered a Roman palace and settlement near the remains of a Roman legionary camp in Xanten (northwest Germany). The structure is 2,000 years old and was probably the seat of the governor.

The discovery was made in Fürstenberg. The settlement (so-called canabae) was located near the camp (castra) of Vetera, where up to 10,000 soldiers were stationed.

The mentioned palace was discovered using GPR; the building measured 100 by 100 meters and may have been the viceroy’s residence. The settlement itself could have been a civilian base for a military facility.

Further excavations are ongoing; some of the settlement’s land is located on current private land, and some is on public land. The exposed foundations are 30-200 cm underground.