Bicycle tour 2: To the Romans and Teutons

The history of the destination:

■ In the year 9 A. D.
Roman troops occupied large areas of Germania. They conquered the areas north of the river Lippe up to the river Weser. The Teutons ambushed the Roman army in a forest. The mastermind behind the attack was the Cheruscan Arminius. In three days, the 17th, 18th and 19th legion were massacred – more than 10,000 people were killed. Named after military leader Publius Quinctilius Varus, the defeat of the Romans went down in history as the "Battle of Varus".

■ 1987 – first clues
Finds of coins drew attention: British officer Tony Clunn found Roman denars and three lead missiles – the first weapons and fist signs of a battle between Romans and Teutons.

■ 1989 – sure findings
Archaeological excavations started: scientists discovered coins, weapons, the mask of a Roman face helmet, pieces of Roman soldier gear, human and animal bones. And they also discovered the remnants of an ambush: a rampart with a verified length of more than 400 metres. It protected the Teutons and provided cover during their attack on the Romans. For centuries, local and international historians searched for the location of the Varus battle. And archaeologists finally found it in Kalkriese, which today numbers among the most important archaeological sites in Europe.

■ Today – Kalkriese museum and park
The Varus battle in the Osnabrück region is an internationally recognised research site. Scientists from five German universities support the archaeological team. Kalkriese is also the place to experience history, art and architecture. Park, tower and museum opened their doors in 2002. An exceptional exhibition brings the history of this unique place to life with modern media and presents 3000 of the 6000 finds made thus far, among them the impressive mask of a Roman face helmet.

Numerous events and the International Roman Days during Pentecost with groups from five nations – with Romans and Teutons, riders and activities – present an especially lively image of the past.
Opening hours:
Varus battle at the Osnabrücker Land Museum and Park Kalkriese
Daily: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Admission: adults: € 5; children up to 16 years, school children, students, handicapped persons: € 3

Public guided tours:
November 1st until March 31st, Sundays and holidays, 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Saturdays 2:30 p.m.
April 1st until October 31st,
Sundays and holidays, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., daily at 3:00 p.m.
guided tours for groups: individual appointments possible. Registration for the guided tour by calling +49 (0)5461 61826 or at Alfsee Center by calling +49 (0)5464 92120