Unique ancient Roman hospital excavated in South Moravia

The hospital was part of an extensive fortified complex that the 10th Roman legion built on Hradisko hill at the Amber Road in the 2nd century AD, under the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

Hradisko was the northernmost outpost of the Roman Empire in Central Europe under Marcus Aurelius. The 10th legion was stationed there to take Germanic tribes in control.

Only foundation remains are preserved from the original hospital today because of the construction works 30 years ago when the huge Nove Mlyny dam was built at the site.

The 60-metre-long and 45-metre-wide hospital served for the treatment and relaxation of hundreds of Romans.

Archaeologists have known about its existence for years. However, they started excavating it only recently in connection with the planned construction of a thermal spa in Pasohlavky near Brno.

The new recreational facility should remind of Roman history as well. The remains of the ancient hospital can be marked by a pavement or bushes in the complex, Komoroczy said.

An exhibition mapping the ancient Roman settlement in the area was opened in the Mikulov chateau two years ago. It offers coins with the portrait of Marcus Aurelius, period bricks and roof tiles with the 10th legion's emblem as well as tools and weapons.

Author: ČTK
www.ctk.cz