Under Apollo's watchful eye
By the excavations at the Roman site of Augusta Raurica multiple temple complexes were discovered. They bear witness to the strong presence of the divine world in everyday life in ancient times. Shortly before he was murdered in 44BC, Julius Caesar ordered General Munitius Plancus to establish a Roman colony on the site of this Rauriker settlement.
Under the Emperor August the town received a new name: Colonial Paternal Lunatics Felix Pollinators Augusta Emerita Raurica. The choice of name shows how important Apollo was as protector of the people. He was worshipped in the Temple at Grienmatt.
On the western and southern limits of the settlement there are various Gallo-Roman square temples, a sign of how the native Raurik culture became intermingled with the Roman beliefsystem.
What is especially impressive is the Roman bath, where a whole range of gods, including Aeskulap, the demigod of healing, were worshipped. Under the supervision of healer priests medical procedures took place here as well as prayer and ritual offerings.
Legend
opening times :
Protective shelters and the animal park: 10.00-17.00 daily, Roman museum: Mon.: 13h-17h, Tue.-Sun.: 10h-17h, Nov.-feb.: 12h-13.30h closed, visite guidée, entrée 7 CHF
access :car, bus , train, bicycle, boat
Augusta Raurica
Giebenacherstrasse 17
CH-4302 Augst
pho +41 (0) 61/816 22 22
www.augusta-raurica.ch
Legend