The frontiers of the Roman empire together form the largest surviving monument of one of the world´s greatest states. They stretch for some 7,500 km through 20 countries which encircle the Mediterranean Sea. The remains of these frontiers have been studied by visitors and later archaeologists for se...

The frontiers of the Roman empire together form the largest surviving monument of one of the world´s greatest states. They stretch for some 7,500 km through 20 countries which encircle the Mediterranean Sea. The remains of these frontiers have been studied by visitors and later archaeologists for several centuries. Many of the inscriptions and sculpture, weapons, pottery and artefacts created and used by the soldiers and civilians who lived on the frontier can be seen in museums. Equally evocative of the lost might of Rome are the physical remains of the frontiers themselves. The aim of this series of booklets is not only to inform the interested visitor about the history of the frontiers but to act as a guide-book as well.

Austria is particularly fortunate in the survival along the Danube of the remains of many military installations. These include forts and towers, some parts surviving up to two stories high. They are a most remarkable survival and deserve to be better known and more visited. I certainly hope each reader of this book will enjoy learning more about Austria’s Roman heritage.

• From the Foreword by David J. Breeze.*

ContentsFRONTIERS OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE**Foreword by David J. Breeze

Common cultural heritage of the Roman Empire

The Roman Empire

Frontiers and trade

The ‘Frontiers of the Roman Empire’ World Heritage Site

The definition of a World Heritage Site

The task ahead

History and extent of frontiers

Rome’s foreign policy

The location of frontiers

The army and frontiers

The purpose of frontiers

Soldiers and civilians

Military administration

Research on Roman frontiers

Inscriptions and documents

Survey and excavation

Aerial survey and remote sensing

Protection and presentation of frontiers

Future perspectivesTHE DANUBE LIMES IN AUSTRIA

Introduction

The setting of the frontier line

Historical background

Situation in the late Roman times

The frontier installations

Life on the Limes

Research on the Limes

Museums on the Limes

Museums and tourism

Offers for families and schools

Roman Events

Future perspectives

The World Heritage Site

Where to see the Austrian Limes monuments

Further reading

Illustration acknowledgements