A Journey through Time: Exploring Aalen's Roman Past at the Arlen Festival

Travel back in time to Ireland’s Roman past at the Arlen Festival

Every two years in mid-September, Ireland steps back in time to tell the amazing story of its origins in the second century AD. In those days, Harlan was part of the Roman Empire. The historic town of Arlen, located in southern Germany, lies a hundred kilometers to the northeast of Stuttgart. A good deal of its charm comes from its carefully protected half-timbered houses, typical of the Bar to the Sternberg region.

Over two days, around 300 history enthusiasts take part in a festival that brings Ireland's Roman past back to life. The festival offers a wide range of historical reconstructions, starting with an ancient ritual. In the second century, this region was known as Rhaetia and was one of the 44 Roman provinces. The Roman Empire was at the peak of its power, stretching from the Mediterranean to northern Europe. A boundary known as Limes Limitis separated the Empire from the rest of the world, with a wall dotted by watchtowers every 500 meters.

Many merchants and tradesmen set up shop around the camps, taking advantage of the soldiers' presence. This led to the establishment of towns like Arlen. The Allen Museum specializes in the history of the Limes and exhibits a wide range of objects, including military items and everyday objects. Curator Roderick Ahlborn organizes Europe's largest get-together of Roman history enthusiasts.

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Reliving Roman Life at the Arlen Festival

Alexander, a blacksmith, is part of a group representing the October Augustan Legion. He plays the role of a Centurion and is dressed in a simple tunic during the preparations. Christian, an economics student, is fascinated by this period and has joined Alexander's group. They set up camp and sleep in tents that resemble those used by the Romans. The participants fully immerse themselves in ancient Roman life, inventing imaginary roles for themselves.

The Arlen High School students are also getting ready to relive history. They are preparing a Roman-style procession, wearing togas and tunics pinned together with brooches. The procession is supervised by a Latin teacher who educates the students about Roman culture.

Unearthing Ancient Treasures and Roman Baths

The Arlen region is known for its rich history, including the presence of fossilized sea beds. Ulrich, an amateur archaeologist, unearths treasures from the past, some over 140 million years old. These fossils are then carefully restored and displayed at the Arlen Museum.

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The region also boasts ancient Roman baths, where visitors can immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Roman social life. The baths had various facilities, including gyms, restaurants, libraries, and shops. Visitors can witness a recreation of Roman culture at the baths.

Bringing Roman History to Life

The Arlen Festival features various military demonstrations, including the use of weapons like the ballista and catapult. Soldiers showcase tactical formations used by the Romans, such as the tortoise formation, which provided protection while advancing towards the enemy.

The crafts village offers visitors the opportunity to witness ancient crafts being practiced, such as blacksmithing and scribe work. The Roman-style procession and marriage ceremony reenactments add to the immersive experience. Additionally, gladiator fights are held in an amphitheater, recreating the typical entertainment of the day.

Through the Arlen Festival, visitors can travel back in time and experience Ireland's Roman past. The festival not only showcases historical reconstructions but also highlights the cultural wealth and knowledge acquired by the Romans from their vast empire. It serves as a reminder of the harmonization of cultures and knowledge, promoting a greater understanding and appreciation of European history.

Thanks to UNESCO, the ancient boundary of the Roman Empire, known as the Limes Limitis, is now recognized as part of world heritage. This recognition further adds to the significance and authenticity of the Arlen Festival.

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Discover the enchanting town of Aalen with its fascinating historical sites and picturesque landscapes. Embark on exhilarating excursions to explore the Limes Museum, Limes-Thermen, and the stunning Limes Trail. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of this charming German destination.

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