trier

THE ROMAN BRIDGE OVER THE MOSEL RIVER I could not love a woman as much as I love Trier and my heart is heavy with sadness, for Covid 19 has come between us, but safe in my mind are the sweet memories of our last meeting. My focus of writing this article is hopefully to encourage any readers to share with me the origin of Trier as it begins to reveal its self to archaeologists and to the historians of antiquity, and be seduced enough to want to visit this delightful German city. THE PEOPLE OF THE DISTANT PAST INCLUDING THE TREVERI In the many centuries before the birth of Christ most of Western Europe was inhabited by numerous and diverse pagan tribes. Perhaps some of the larger tribes would have a Royal house including a king. A tribes boundaries would have been defined by the lay of the land, which may have included hills, river valleys and a forest, while in other parts the boundaries would fluctuate. Tribal warfare appears to have been a regular feature of their societies. They fought for political control, economic advantage and to conquer territory. Their internal wars prevented the unification of Gaul as did other migrating tribes like the Helvetii, which would have created more pressure on their valued land. Between 58 BC and 50 BC Julius Caesar ( B 12 July 100 B C—D 17 march 45 B C ) was responsible for the expansion of the then Roman Republic through what is now France and parts of Belgium and by conquering Gaul it allowed Rome to secure the natural border of the river Rhine. This was completed when he defeated Vercingetorix at the battle of Alesia in 52 B C. Figure 1and 2 courtesy E Wightman We first hear of the Treveri tribe during Caesar’s campaigns in Gaul as he was astutely aware of their close relationships with some of the tribes across the Rhine, and with their Belgic neighbours to the north-west. Caesar enlightens us that the Treveri inhabited the land between the rivers Meuse and the Rhine, which would have been the middle and lower Mosel valley, and the low mountain ranges Eifel and Hunsruck, plus the now Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, and part of the Luxembourg province of Belgium. Caesar also informs us that this tribe had a reputation for fine horsemanship and it transpires that they seemingly had their own cavalry units. Although their cavalry were unreliable and unpredictable regarding their loyalty and had fought for and against Caesar. This was high-lighted in 57 BC when a unit of their cavalry fighting on behalf of Caesar were set against their Belgic neighbours. Then, in the face of a possible defeat, the Treveri deserted. Caesar viewed the Treveri as a pretentious and a disruptive influence and being aware that their aristocratic leader Inoutiomarus who ( died 53 BC ) was anti Roman, Caesar promoted Inoutiomarus Son-in Law Cingetorix, who was pro Roman, as the head of the Treveri. Unperturbed Inoutiomarus now confiscates his Son-in-Law’s property and Caesar is forced into marching into Treveran territory with four legions and some cavalry. Unfortunately that year had seen a poor harvest which seemingly meant that the Roman army had to be split up into smaller units than usual, for they depended on the pro Roman tribes for their winter grain, but this also made them more vulnerable if attacked. Titus Labienus, ( B 100 B C--D 45 B C at Munda when he opposed Caesar during the final battle of the Roman Civil War ) was Caesar’s Senior Legate and second -in –command. He was a skilled cavalry commander and was sent with just one legion, which was about three thousand men, to the frontier between the pro Roman Remi tribe and the Treveri. We are told that when the Roman camp was located it was besieged by the Treveri, and Indutiomarus is consequently killed during a skirmish with the Roman soldiers. But the Treveri now under the command of Indutiomarus relatives continued the revolt. History is disclosed to us that Labienus was saved from attack by the reinforcement of two legions dispatched to him by Caesar. Now, a confident Labienus leaves his camp with his legions, and on finding ground to his liking he engages and defeats the Treveri. Cingetorix was now inaugurated as a “client” king, and his tribe take no part in the rebellion of Vercinetorix. However in 51 B C this tribe revolt again. Perhaps Cingetorix had died, and this was put down by Labienus. Caesar, was acutely aware that this aggressive tribe, with their northern neighbours and friends across the Rhine could once again revolt so he chose to keep this army close by. For added security Caesar appointed Cummius to rule over the Morini, a Belgic coastal tribe in the modern Pas de Calais region. Perhaps then, as suggested by archaeology and historians from the past, the Treveri were a people of mixed origins, who had within their history adopted a Celtic language and became unified and recognizable to Caesar as a distinct tribe. THE WARRIOR KING COMMIUS Commius was a true tribal warrior of his time, for he could be fiercely loyal, filled with a heartfelt and powerful intensity, although, history reveals to us that his loyalty wavered from being an ally of Caesar, to occasionally becoming his enemy. In essence Commius was then king of the Atrebates, one of a large confederation of tribes known as the Belgae. They occupied Northern Gaul between the English Channel, the west-bank of the river Rhine and the northern bank of the river Seine. Seemingly before Caesar’s expedition to Britain in 55 B C Commius was sent ahead to the British tribes as his envoy, and then during Caesar’s second expedition to Britain in 54 B C, Commius we are told, negotiated the surrender of the warrior king Cassivellauns who led an alliance of tribes against Caesar. But then during the winter of 53 B C the tangled web of politics surfaced once again. Labienus believing that Commius was the architect of a pending conspiracy with other Gaulish tribes plotted to assassinate him. The Roman Tribune Gaius Volusenus Quadratus and a number of Centurions lured Commius to a meeting but the assassination attempt failed. As Commius recovered from a severe head wound he never again associated with the Romans. Consequently Commius and his Atrebates tribe fought against Caesar at Alesia, but with this battle lost he returned to England around 51B C. By 30 B C he seems to have established himself at Calleva Atrebatum, now recognized as Silchester. And from here, now being king of the Atrebates in Britain, he issued coins bearing his name. Intriguingly in June 2008 and just 6 miles from Chichester at North Bersted an ancient burial was discovered and excavated. It was the grave of a mystery warrior and is now known as the North Bersted Man and his skeletal remains were radiocarbon dated between 194 -59 B C. I was secretly tantalised that this may have been the grave of Commius but there was not enough left of his cranium to pinpoint a healed head wound due to the acidic soil. His skeletal remains and grave goods are now at the Novium museum in Chichester and can be viewed on the internet by searching for the North Bersted Man. THE EXPANDING INFLUENCE OF THE TREVERI The geographical environment would have had a major influence on settlement as would the River Mosel/Moselle. This river drains the central and eastern area and being navigable was an important means of transport and communication, as were the prehistoric land routes and established thoroughfares. The soil that covers the slaty rocks is mainly of poor quality and lacks depth, while over the high ground forest is the natural covering. The breeding of livestock and hunting were seemingly more important and worthwhile than agriculture. For some time the ruling elite of the Treveri had been establishing a tapestry of development and had begun to embroider it within their numerous settlements which had grown within their tribal boundaries. Between Birkenfeld and Saarbrucken the now exhausted mineral deposits including iron and copper would have generated immense income for their economy. TITElBERG FOUNDATIONS ( WIKIPEDIA ) Titelberg now in present day Luxembourg, was possibly one of the main settlements of the pre –Roman Treveri tribe, and was possibly regarded as an oppidum, a major tribal centre. It was fortified and set in about 125 acres and within it was an area rich in iron-ore deposits. No doubt there were other important settlements/ hill forts. Some were controlled by aristocratic landowners and others perhaps were under the influence of local tribal leaders. A mixture of people over many years conceivably developed into what is now known as the Treveri tribe, for numerous Celtic tribes were migrating great distances. And, it also seems that the Treveri spoke using a Celtic dialect. The Treveri had developed a sophisticated economy and like multiple other tribes, were minting gold coins prior to the arrival of Caesar. The Treveran gold coins were identified by their distinctive pictorial markings. The coins on one side showed an eye seen sideways on, while on the reverse was a disjointed horse and a wheel. The wandering archaeologists cast an ocean of light upon the designs that were on the bronze coins. On one side was the bust of the goddess Venus and on the reverse, there may have been a flower, a bull or even a boar. TRIBAL RELIGION The religious practices of the local tribes is floating, and in all probability been lost in the gathering mists of time,… although for us geologists have produced the answers to the mysteries of the landscape while the indigenous inhabitants relied on their own interpretation, that certain Gods or spirits were responsible. They, therefore had an obligation to pay homage and to respect the continuing gifts from mother earth. Numerous deities roamed the land and depending on the local natural physical environment, like oak-groves, lakes and fresh water springs, would have characterized which deities would have been revered. The worship was probably conducted by tribal elders using story- telling, verse and song. All of which would have been handed down through the generations by word of mouth. After the Roman conquest many of their deities were seemingly associated with Roman equivalents and some were even coupled with the Roman gods and goddesses. A beacon of enlightenment was unveiled for us by the work of archaeologists of the past at the Irminenwingert Temple District on the western bank of the river Moselle near Trier. During the removal of much earth to make way for the building of some barracks numerous stone monuments were discovered. Inscribed artefacts suggest that it was the central sanctuary of the Treveri. It was pre- Roman and seemingly used until the time of the Roman emperor Gratian. Part of this sanctuary was dedicated to the Gods Lenus and Mars. Lenus was revered by the Treveri as a healing god, while Mars was the Roman god of war, and the protector of the tribe during battle. Although the Treveri showed reverence to multiple deities, a few were more distinctive and perhaps even unique to their trible elders. Apparently, as suggested by others, the following deities of Inicona and Veraudunus, the Xultigiae, Ritona, and Intarabus could relate to earlier Celtic beliefs and customs. The arrival of Christianity was seemingly a destabilizing influence for what is now perceived as Paganism, for during the reign of Gratian, who died aged 24 in 383AD, the then Emperor of this Western part of the Roman Empire, much damage was sustained in the Altbachtal ancient holy district within Trier. In the valley basin of the Altbach below the Trier Amphitheatre excavations were carried out between 1926 and 1934 by Siegfried Loeschcke. Within an area of 5 hectares and to a depth of 5 meters, at least 70 temples and chapels were recognized as well as a number of priest houses and a cult theatre. Sadly after the 2nd World war this region was filled with rubble and levelled, although many of the artefacts discovered during the excavations of 1926 and 1934 can now be viewed in the Rheiniches Landesmuseum in Trier. THE ORIGINS OF ROMAN TRIER AND AN ERA OF PEACE AND EXPANSION It may be that the higher land from the Petrisberg offered it’s self as a contender for the vicinity of a safe and prosperous settlement. The land descended moderately towards the river Moselle and therefore offered up a flood free site with the bonus of a known river crossing. Also Trier is ideally situated for a fort as it lies on the stretch of the river where routes from the south and west going towards the Rhineland must cross the Moselle. In 27BC Octavian, the adopted son and heir of Julius Caesar, arose from the dust and grime of conflict to become the 1st Roman Emperor, and he assumed the title of Augustus. In all probability after the colony (of foreign- rule) was established a civitas, (a politically organized community) began to appear and this new expanding tribal centre perhaps became known as Augustus Treverorum. The name Augustus possibly used to show respect for the Roman Emperor, while Treverorum related to the local inhabitants. Under Augustus, Agrippa, the emperor’s faithful general, was a progressive Roman, filled with vision and positive intent. During his two periods of office he stimulated and help to plan three exceedingly important Roman roads. All went through the lands of the Treveri which would increase their transregional trade, while for the Roman army it was of benefit for their military deployment. The road that started from Lyon was part of the long distance road network, and from Trier it progressed to Cologne which was the then capital of the Roman province of Germania inferior. Another came from the south and connected Metz in France with the now town of Dalheim in south-eastern Luxembourg and then on to Trier. It then went further to the river Rhine in the northeast, which was the then border of the Roman Empire. Another road from the southwest connected Reims in France with Niederanven in Luxembourg and then progressed to Trier. Interestingly archaeology has revealed to us that there was a pre-Roman bridge over the Moselle between Stadtbredimus and Palzem. This bridge would have carried tracks from the south and west bound for Hunsruck and/or for the area around Trier. Around 16BC and following the reorganisation of the Roman provinces, the capital of Belgica was moved from Reims to Augusta Treverorum. Possibly, many local nobles from the Treveri tribe would have sought positions of authority and consequently were awarded Roman citizenship. Tiberius succeeded his stepfather during 14AD and wished to expand the Roman Empire along the Danube and modern day Germany. To help finance this he increased the amount of taxation coming in from Gaul. This only added to other under-laying issues, triggering a wave of discontent around 21AD. After the brief reign of Caligula, the next Emperor Claudius in 41AD, recognized the strategic location of Trier, and consequently there was a rapid period of development. Claudius was a pioneering builder and he ordered the construction, not just around Trier, but across his empire, of numerous aqueducts, canals and roads. THE GOOD THE BAD AND THE UGLY BY 459 AD Trier had become part of Charlemagne’s empire and was under the control of a people recognised by name as the Franks. Although Trier at various times was, as a result of the Napoleonic war under the control of the French in 1794, but during 1815 it had become German once again within the Kingdom of Prussia and it has remained part of the German nation ever since. On reflection there was a disconcerting period of unrest during the last decade of the 2nd century by the usurpation of imperial power by Decimus Clodius Albinus the then governor of Britain, when he crossed into Gaul with his army late in 196. Gratifyingly the Rhineland armies including the Treveri stayed loyal to Septimus Severus, and the threat to stability was averted. In consequence, perhaps, if you chose the wrong side there would have been some unpleasant repercussions. Within Trier’s distance past it was the capital of the Roman Northern Territories of the Western Roman Empire for over 400 hundred years, during which it was the residence of eight emperors of Christianity. It was a key city of the Northern Territories and now it is the oldest city in Germany and is located in the German state of Rhineland- Palatinate and it celebrated its 2,000th birthday in 1984. It seems that around the middle and later part of the 1st Century AD, the footsteps of urbanization tiptoed into the northern part of the then town, becoming a residential district, for the south, probably by now, was an industrial area with potteries. The eastern perimeter of the street grid was also residential while to the south east in the valley of the Altbach, which was the sacred precinct, solid foundations of early stone houses were detected. Also mosaics assembled with black and white tesserae depicting geometrical patterns, which would have been the current fashion during the 1st century, were observed below and beside the basilica. As the years tumbled away into oblivion Trier became more accepting to Romanization, for seemingly a new social structure expressed through architecture eventually began to emerge. Although it was religion rather than politics, for the population still served their Gods. Paganism, superstition beliefs, cults of the aristocrats, including the educated oriental cults, but Christianity with the promise of eternal life eventually had a strong cultural influence. THE ROMAN FORUM (NUMBER 8 ON THE MAP) During the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD Trier embarked on a development of some monumental public buildings and perhaps one of Trier’s first was the building of its Forum. This seems to have been built on a raised bank of earth, which would have made it an impressive and visual commanding site. Archaeology suggests that the complex was around 400m long and 150m wide. This building would become the beating heart of the city and would serve as a centre of administration, justice, business, and for important public meetings. Perhaps its construction would have been based on a known Roman Mediterranean design. Archaeology seems to lead us towards the thought that there were two rows of shops/store rooms, one row facing inside the Forum, while the other row was facing to the outside, possibly to the north and to the south. Perhaps many of the streets were completely re-surfaced around this time, paved slabs replacing the then gravel, while Mediterranean architecture would have encouraged the construction of arcades and porticos, which offered up protection against adverse weather conditions. Also within the Forum lavish décor would have welcomed its visitors including mosaics, and brightly coloured murals. THE FORUM BATH’S (NUMBER 9 ON THE MAP) These Roman baths were rediscovered during 1987 when the construction works for an underground car park beneath the surface of the Viemarktplatz (Cattle Market Square) began. The baths were opened to visitors in June 1998 after being excavated by the Rheinisches Landesmuseum of Trier. As the archaeologists pervaded with their excavations early Roman, perhaps 1st Century AD, residential building remains were observed. Stemming from these a Capuchin monastery complex from the 17th/18th centuries was recorded. The cellar walls of the monastery were partly built directly on the foundations of the buildings of the Roman baths. Also much of the monastery was constructed using rubble from the buildings of the Roman period. The bath complex would fall out of use during the early part of the 5th century as Trier suffered the continued wrath of barbarian invasions and political turmoil. The complex today is housed within a modern glass cube. With the abolition of the monastery in 1802, the Cattle Market Square was established and used as a market place and then became an area for parking. Perhaps a sad end to the place that was at one time the garden of the Capuchin monastery. THE WARM BATH HALL (TEPIDARIUM) `THE AULA PALATINA (BASILIKA) ( NUMBER 6 ON THE MAP ) Another massive and imposing structure, now known as the Basilika, which was reduced to ruins during the 2nd World War, was investigated by archaeologists, and its present restoration is as accurate as possible. Its sheer size dominates that area of the city. It is 67m in length 27-5m in width and is at least 33m in height. During their excavations a bronze coin dated to the year 305 was found. In the distant past the Basilika was part of a complex of buildings, the layout of which is not yet completely understood. An early geometric mosaic, marble veneer and five hypocausts were excavated, one in the apse and four in the main hall of the building. In parts of the west wall and of the apse some of the original Roman work is still visible. This prestigious and illustrious and enormous audience hall would have held the throne of the Emperor of the time. It would have been extravagantly and elaborately decorated with a wealth of rich colours and held many ornamented statues. At present the Basilika is a Protestant Church of the Redeemer and owned by a congregation within the Evangelical Church in the Rhineland. During 1986 it became part of a UNESCO World Heritage site. INSIDE THE BASILIKA Interestingly the skeleton of this construction is very unusual, for the walls are 2.70 cm thick and are built of tiles. These were laid in courses which were then separated by mortar layers. The mortar was nearly as thick as the tiles, and the amount of tiles required to complete this build would have been colossal. PART OF THE ORIGINAL ROMAN WEST WALL IN THE BASILIKA THE ROMAN DEFENSIVE WALLS OF TRIER Trier was protected by a fortified city wall 6.4 kilometres in length protecting an area of 285 hectares. It was seemingly constructed around 170 AD. The wall was 6.4 metres high with a mortar and rubble core and faced with sandstone blocks. Apparently defensive towers and bastions were built at regulated intervals. The settlements outside the city would also have required some protective fortifications which included Arlon, Pachten, Sarrbrucken Neumagen, Bitburg and Junkerath. The layout of their fortifications would have varied, governed by the local terrain. Some were rectangular, while others were polygonal or oval. Perhaps these were the efforts of land-owners working in groups or even as individuals. Some, perhaps, had military associations, although all had protruding towers built at close intervals. THE MAIN GATES OF TRIER ( NUMBER 1 ON THE MAP ) THE PORTA NIGRA (STANDS CLOSE TO THE OLD ROMAN ROAD TO MAINZ ) There are four known city gates which stood at the ends of two main streets. One led north to south and the other east to west. Porta Alba the (White Gate) was in the east and the Porta Inclyta (Famous Gate) in the west, which was next to the Roman bridge across the Moselle. In the south was the Porta Media (Middle Gate) which was on the line of modern Saarstrasse. And then to the north was the Porta Nigra. It has been suggested that perhaps a fifth gate existed at the amphitheatre. During archaeological excavations below the area where it crosses a steep but small valley of the Olewigerbach, and where a wall runs over a foundation of sandstone blocks, one was found bearing a quarry mark similar to ones from the Porta Nigra. Religion was responsible for changing the fortunes of the Porta Nigra when on St Andrew’s Day in 1030 the hermit Simeon, at his request, was shut in the east tower of the ruined building. This Sicilian Byzantine monk came to Trier during 1027, rather than returning to St Catherine’s monastery, which was at the foot of Mount Sinai. His intention was to lead a life of seclusion. After Simeon’s death the Archbishop Poppo succeeded in having Simeon canonized, and the saint’s tomb became an attraction for pilgrimages. The gate was converted by Poppo to a double church, and the Church of St Simeon was dedicated about 1042. Also the Simeonstift monastery was built next to the Porta Nigra to honour him. Unfortunately between 1802 and 1804 Napoleon Bonaparte was responsible for much destruction in Trier. He initially dissolved the church within the Porta Nigra and the monastery beside it. Many churches and houses of worship, including the monasteries fell foul of his destructive influence. And the Porta Nigra was converted back to its original Roman form, although the apse was retained. Apparently on the 22nd of July 1817 the Prussian Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm (1V) entered the city through the Roman gate and consequently the Prussian state took on the responsibility for its conservation. During the middle ages all the other stone gates were dismantled and the material used elsewhere. On the Porta Nigra the iron and lead braces were taken out for reuse. Traces of this destruction are still visible on the north side of gate. Air pollution, mainly from the exhaust fumes of passing cars continues to darken its stones. Today numerous schools visit the Porta Nigra, the students made visible due to the smartness of their school uniforms. THE AMPHITHEATRE ( NUMBER 5 ON THR MAP) The amphitheatre is situated on the eastern edge of the Roman city, and was integrated into the city wall. It formed the end of a monumental boulevard which began at the Roman Bridge and continued along the Barbara Baths, the Forum and the Imperial Baths. It enclosed an area of approximately of 120 x 140 metres, so this structure is among one of the largest arenas known. The visiting spectators reached the terraces via two main entrances, while participants in the games find their way into the area directly through a gate. Gladiators and any animals wait their turn in chambers in the arena walls or are carried from the cellar into the arena by a lift. This public arena of entertainment could seat approximately up to 20,000 spectators. This amphitheatre is fundamentally an earthwork, as it is sunk partly into the western slope of the Petrisberg. On the opposite side the earth was heaped up and then assembled to the required height. The seating was of stone and consequently was used as a quarry by the Cistercian monks of Himmerod Abbey during the middle ages. The Abbey was dissolved in October 2017 but was then retrieved in June 2020. Today the Abbey has a café, an art and book shop, a plant nursery and a museum. Its fishery remains in operation as it is now leased out. Seemingly, for the present, the amphitheatre is used regularly for various cultural events. THE ELECTORAL PALACE THE SOUTH FACADE For many generations the Basilika was the residence for the Trier Archbishops, until a gentleman by the name Lothar von Metternich (1599-1623) decided to demolish some Roman structures and replace them with a monumental building comprising of four wings. Lothar von Metternich was born into an old German noble family. Apparently he was a very well educated and was fluent in flemish, Italian, french and latin. He oversaw the building of this massive and significant edifice which would eventually contain some extraordinary interior architecture. During World War II only two wings of the Renaissance building had survived, and they were reduced to just fragments. Although after the war, the flamboyant rococo staircase inside the south wing was restored. The stucco on the walls of the staircase were added around 1906, as the originals had been lost. The exterior of the building is Renaissance architecture. While inside it regularly hosts classical music concerts and is the home of various offices of the federal government. During the early part of the 20th century the former palace gardens have been open to the public, and features statues sculpted by Ferdinand Tietz. THE ROMAN BRIDGE WITH ITS STONE PILLARS THE HISTORY OF THE ROMAN BRIDGE, NUMBER 11 ON THE MAP In the past dredging of the Mosel, revealed, and embedded in the riverbed, archaeologists stumbled upon evidence for a bridge across the Mosel between Stadtbredimus and Palzem constructed during the 2nd century BC. Some of the timbers when examined could be distinguished from the later Roman Bridge, were felled in 168 and 149 BC. This bridge gave access from the south and west for traffic bound for the Hunsruck and the area around the vicinity of Trier. The Roman Bridge in Trier is the oldest standing bridge in Germany. The nine bridge pillars date from the 2nd century AD and replace the two older wooden bridges. The colonial title to Trier is possibly attributed to the Emperor Claudius ( 41 -54 ) AD, with Britain now part of the Roman Empire a good system of roads between the Rhine frontier and ports on the English channel were needed. Perhaps under the Emperor Hadrian ( 117 -138 ) AD, there may have been an upgrade of the Provincial buildings, for apparently many of the streets were re-surfaced about this time. Also it has been realised, through excavations, that second bridge over the Mosel replaced the first during the beginning of the 2nd century. The new bridge had nine piers which now support the modern superstructure. Two are now embedded in the eastern riverbank. Seemingly all were pointed at the end which faces up-stream and rounded at the other end. They are solidly built stone foundations and all rest directly on the excavated bed-rock. Six are constructed from massive basalt lava blocks. The others are of stone. The whole structure was bound together by iron clamps set in lead. During recent excavations an investigation discovered that wooden caissons surrounded the piers, so to exclude water at the time of their construction. Also some water-proof clay was recognised. THE PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY FOR TRIER In pre roman times the local inhabitants gathered their water from wells, rivers, streams and springs. But during the 2nd century they were introduced to Roman technology by the building of aqueducts. The largest aqueduct was apparently the one in the Ruwer valley, starting near the main reservoir of modern Trier. The river Ruwer is a tributary of the Mosel. The aqueduct was seemingly almost 13km long with a gradient of o.o6%. Its cross-section was 0,74x1,30m. The outer walls were 0.96 – 1.30m high and 0.74-78m wide. The arched masonry channel was constructed of crushed stone and was plastered with a watertight lime mortar. This aqueduct is displayed at only a few locations. No doubt there were numerous aqueducts that supplied Trier. Isolated observations suggest that there was one running down the Olewiger valley and others from Mariahof which is above Heligkreuz. Possibly, the ROMAN CIRCUS (NUMBER 4 ON THE MAP ) built for public entertainment and capable of accommodating many thousands of spectators, was supplied water via an aqueduct to this hippodrome. This ancient site was mammoth, about 450 m long and was renovated around 293 AD when the Emperor Constant Chlorus came to live in Trier. If the monument was connected to the aqueduct it could have supplied water to fountains that were perhaps on the spina. Also on private land the springs may have been utilised by the use of pipes made of terracotta, stone, wood and lead. Today there is nothing to be seen of the circus as houses have now engulfed this ancient monument. THE KAISERTHERMEN/IMPERIAL BATHS (NUMBER 7 ON THE MAP) tt Figure 2 ( with thanks to RHEINLANDPFALZ) orientation map Houses were demolished, the ground was levelled and an area 260 by 145 m (825x 480 ft) was got ready, towards the end of the 3rd century, to accommodate planned extensions of the imperial residence. Unfortunately these new planned buildings were never finished. This prestigious bath complex was begun shortly before 300AD by Constantius Chlorus but construction ceased around 316AD with the baths still incomplete. The baths were divided into two parts, the bath complex and the exercise ground known as the palaestra which measured 160 x 130 meters. Interestingly in the north- west corner of the imperial baths some Late la Tene pottery was excavated. Some pieces may have been decorated with painted floral and animal motifs. Close by a pit of Claudian date was discovered with stone built cellars belonging to the later 1st century houses. Apparently one of these had been altered as its original entrance was walled up and a new one was constructed. But, beside the blocked entrance four small pots with lids had been buried upside down. Perhaps this position suggests that they were offerings for the deities of the underworld, so to appease the spirt of some deceased and much loved member of the household. Foundation trenches were discovered filled with limestone rubble and then dressed with roughly shaped limestone blocks. Also bonding courses built of tiles were recognised with only 2 or 3 courses of stone between them, and this would have helped strengthen the walls. Other building materials were fireproof terracotta bricks, granite and marble. The 3 main rooms, frigidarium, tepidarium and caldarium were built one behind the other and were all were linked by vestibules. All these were constructed in a semi- circular fashion and other rooms would have been dressing rooms and latrines. CONSTANTINE 1 (AD 306 –AD 337) In all probability it was during the reign of this Emperor, who was also known as Constantine the Great, that work was abandon at the Imperial baths. After Constantine emerged victorious in the civil wars against the emperors Maxentius and Licinius, he became the sole ruler of the Roman Empire in 324 AD. Constantine chose Byzantium, later to be recognised as Constantinople which became the new capital of the Roman Empire. This city had a natural harbour and was a thriving port and had a prime geographical location between Europe and Asia. Much grain and silk were traded here. Also it should be remembered that Constantine became the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. After Constantine stopped funding the Imperial baths in Trier they fell into disrepair and were neglected. They were used as part of the city wall then a castle and perhaps a monastery. Seemingly the external walls of the Imperial baths were plastered in an indulgent fashion and was a restricted entry, as all of the buildings connected with the court lie in the area of the town stretching northwards so to form a palatial enclave. RECENT ARCHAEOLOGIAL EXCAVATIONS IN TRIER Surprisingly the excavations of the Kaiserthermen also known as the Imperial baths, revealed two massive foundation blocks marking the monumental gate that was planned as an entrance hall but was never finished. Also noticed were a number of foundation blocks of Roman concrete. During 1993 about 2650 gold coins were excavated, while the earliest coins were minted in 63AD, during the reign of the emperor Nero. The latest were found with the emperor Septimius Severus depicted on them about 196 AD. Perhaps they were buried because of the on- going 196AD civil war. THE BARBARHERMEN BATHS (NUMBER 12 0N THE MAP) During the life-time of these baths they would have been elaborately decorated and a marble torso of an Amazon warrior was discovered. This is now in the Landesmuseum in Mainz. Perhaps it is a copy of a Greek original. Slightly out of sight and in crevices and recesses possibly were more marble sculptures. Perhaps depicting Greek and Roman Gods, like Minerva Goddess of wisdom, Neptune God of fresh water and Poseidon with his awesome trident. This complex probably went out of use during the early part of the 5th century when Trier was sacked by the Franks. The Huns under Attila in 451 AD also sacked the City. Trier became part of Frankish territory during 485 AD, and its population decreased drastically during this period of instability. These baths derives its name from the local church dedicated to St Barbara. Sadly today only a smallish area is preserved above foundation level. But in the early part of the 17th century a small area survived as a home for a noble family. These baths perhaps were built in the second half of the 2nd century and cover an area of 42 thousand square meters with water supplied from the Ruwer aqueduct. The Barbarathermen baths water for the thermae was heated in a metal boiler which was as high as a house, and the temperature could be controlled by adding cold water. In the past archaeologists have enthralled me by their discoveries. They include a water tank large enough to be connected to the public water supply. This probably belongs to the middle of the 3rd century and was constructed by using large stone blocks which were smeared inside with a layer of water tight clay. Beneath these were a series of wooden trenches, apparently for the catching unwanted sediment.t THE CATHEDRAL ( NUMBER 2 ON THE MAP) Trier cathedral, formally the high Cathedral of St Peter is in the religion of the Roman Catholic and its most famous relic is the Holy Robe, the tunic of Christ. This robe was last shown in 2012. The skull of Helena, the Mother of the Emperor Constantine is seen in the east crypt, and her drinking is kept in the cathedral’s treasury. Also there is a view of the so- called portable altar of Saint Andrew, the twelfth Bishop of Trier. He was also one of the first apostles of Jesus. The cathedral has a rich history spanning around 1700 years. Its roots trace back to the 4th century, when it was built upon the foundations of a Roman building, which included the Palace of Saint Helena. The cathedral was the victim of invading armies, the Franks and the Vikings, but was rebuilt and expanded in each era. In reality Trier itself was founded in the late 1st century BC and carried the name Augusta Treverorum and for 500 years and was the favoured residence of many Roman emperors. In all probability there was a diminutive Christian community in Trier during the latter part of the 2nd century, although more evidence relating to Trier belongs to the next century where it can be checked and verified. It begins with three named bishops, Eucharius, Maternus and Valerius. These names are followed by Agricius, the first historically documented bishop of Trier serving in the 4th century. Apparently he was a priest of Antioch before being appointed to the See of Trier. He was present at the council of Arles in 314 and was connected with Helena the mother of Constantine. The Christian community in Trier was expanding and had reached dimensions relevant enough for the appointment of a Bishop in the closing years of the 3rd century. Seemingly heavenly treasures were coming more important and significant than ever before. The growth of the Christian faith within Trier was not admired by many of its residents as Congregations still carried a profound respect and admiration and reverence for non-Christian religions. Many focused on honouring the divine within nature and celebrating the interconnectedness of all things. They worshiped numerous gods and goddesses and held seasonal festivals, rituals and had a deep respect for Mother Earth. Trier cathedral was dedicated to Saint Peter and incorporated remnants of a Roman Imperial palace and bath house including sections of the original walls of the Aula Palatina and the imperial thermae. This early Christian structure is thought to have been built between AD 300 and AD310. This lavishly designed residential palace was demolished around AD335 when the Christian church complex was expanded. Much of the Cathedral was built of Kordel sandstone which originated very close to Trier near the town of Kordel. This was very convenient for rebuilding, as allied bombing raids in December 1944 caused damage to the cathedral. The cloisters roof and vaults of the healing chapel and the roofs of the west tower were destroyed. During 1950 the bomb damage to the cathedral was repaired and the expansion of the interior was completed. A MAJOR DISCOVERY WITH THANKS TO SELBSTVERLAG DES BISHCHOFLICHEN MUSEUMS TRIER, FOR THE GROUND PLAN OF THE CATHEDRAL. CUPIDS WITH A CENSER BOWL PHILOSOPHER WITH A SCROLL During the years of 1945/46 and 1967/68 at a depth of over 3 meters an extraordinary discovery was excavated. Many thousands of fragments of a dropped down plaster ceiling were found and recovered. During the first excavation nearly half of the ceiling paintings were recovered and six sections were to be assembled. It was Dr Theodork Kempf who recognized the significance of these finds and during 1967/68 the southern half was excavated and the rest of the of the paintings were discovered. The puzzle work continued and together with the restorer P. Welter the first 6 paintings were shown to the public in 1951.The ceiling murals are on display in a dedicated room in the Cathedral Museum since 1988 but for conservation purposes the murals are mounted on walls and not the ceiling. In 1993 they can now be seen in the museum. All are presented with the colours of red green and yellow and each offer female and male busts. Some are seen with halos, circles of light, either symbolic or atmospheric but very radiant and luminous. Others contain unique pairs of playful putti, and there are 15 different portraits. It is worth buying the museum hand book as Theodork Kemp gives his own interpretation off the ceiling. Another area close by and stimulates our imagination is the Horrea, a warehouse, number 3 on the map. It was strategically placed to facilitate efficient up loading and storage of goods arrivining by ship on the moselle river.It is located near the ancient harbour within the city walls on the north western side.These structures were built around 333AD and were likely used as granaries and possibly as a military store house. It may have been two stories high but as yet no trace of a stair case has been found. The complex featured two large halls 19 meters wide separated by a12 meters wide courtyard. The walls were reinforced with pilasters and blind arcades which were a decorative feature. The building was later used as Benedictine abbey, but is now one of oldest wine cellars in Germany. It was built using limestone and remnats of Roman walls and brick flooring are still visible. Woman with a nimbus. Dancing cupids with a bowl