During work on a new cycle path in Aarschot (Flemish Brabant), shards dating back to the Roman period were found. Until now, only evidence dating back to the early Middle Ages had been discovered this close to the Aarschot city centre. It means people have been living in the Aarschot area for longer than previously thought.
A new cycle path has recently been built. The work was accompanied by an archaeological investigation that led to the discovery of fragments from the Roman period.
‘We’re not talking about an amphitheatre or a temple,’ says Aarschot Mayor Gwendolyn Rutten. ‘These are small pieces of pottery. Nevertheless, the fragments can teach us something about our history.’
Foundation myth involving Julius Caesar
The pieces of pottery date back to the Roman period. Signs of the Roman presence have been found in the wider area around Aarschot, but never so close to the city centre. ‘Until now, only evidence dating back to the early Middle Ages has been found,’ says Rutten.
Aarschot suddenly appears to be a lot older. The discovery also brings to mind the myth surrounding the city's origins. ‘Legend has it that Julius Caesar was hunting in this area. He spotted an eagle and shot it down with a single arrow. At the spot where the eagle landed, Caesar predicted that a city would be built. And so the shooting of the eagle led to the founding of Aarschot.’
‘Now that we know that the Romans once visited Aarschot, that myth seems a little closer to reality,’ says Rutten with a wink. ‘In any case, it is a wonderful historical find for our city. We will certainly treasure these shards.’