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Archaeological site · Tongeren, Limburg
Romeinse stadsmuur
Sections of the 2nd-century Roman wall, the oldest Roman fortification in Belgium, with about 2 km preserved and towers along avenues west of the centre.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Romeinse stadsmuur
The Roman wall of Tongeren was erected in the 2nd century to protect Atuatuca Tungrorum. It was about 4.5 km long and roughly 6 meters high, and is considered the oldest Roman urban fortification in Belgium. About 2 km of the wall’s original circuit survive to the present day.
The visible sections run along avenues with names that recall the Roman era: Caesarlaan, Legioenenlaan, Cottalaan and Sabinuslaan, to the west and northwest of the center. You can see the stone base and regularly spaced towers. Many stones from the wall were reused over the centuries in local churches and houses.
The wall is a protected monument and is outdoors, open to the public. On Caesarlaan there are also the remains of a Roman temple. In 2024, city works uncovered a previously unknown section.
After seeing the wall, it’s worth returning to the Gallo-Romeins Museum or the Teseum, which show what the city it protected was like. Tongeren also preserves a medieval wall from the 13th century, of which towers and the Moerenpoort remain.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes to 1 hour to walk the main sections.
Best time
On a dry day, in the morning or late afternoon, when low light brings out the stones. The route is outdoors and pairs well with a walk around the center.
How to get there
Legioenenlaan is about a 10-minute walk from the Grote Markt, heading west. From there follow Caesarlaan, Cottalaan and Sabinuslaan.
Tip
Wear comfortable shoes and combine the walk with the Roman temple on Caesarlaan. The city tourist office has maps showing the wall’s route.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Romeinse stadsmuur
How much of the Roman wall still exists?
About 2 km of the original 4.5 km remain, in sections along Caesarlaan, Legioenenlaan, Cottalaan and Sabinuslaan.
Do you have to pay to see it?
The wall is outdoors, along avenues and green spaces, and can be viewed at any time of day.
When does the wall date from?
From the 2nd century, when Tongeren was Atuatuca Tungrorum. The medieval wall, from the 13th century, is a different structure, closer to the centre.