Roman-era discoveries reshape Westland's ancient history ahead of Flora Campus construction
Archaeologists have uncovered traces of a Roman settlement in Westland, revealing well-preserved wooden structures and human remains. Residents can explore the findings at an open day on April 11, offering a glimpse into the region's hidden past before the Flora Campus development begins.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Flora Campus Westland, Netherlands |
| Archaeological Team | ADC Archeologie, Archol, Westlands Museum |
| Major Finds | Remains of a Roman house, wooden posts, terra sigillata pottery, fibula |
| Preservation Conditions | High groundwater level preserved wooden structures |
| Human Remains | Bone fragments found, possibly from burials beneath Roman-era houses |
| Open Day Date | April 11, 2026 |
| Ground Level Changes | Evidence of raised soil to combat rising water levels in the 3rd century |
The municipality of Westland, in collaboration with archaeological firms, oversees excavations to preserve historical artifacts before construction projects like Flora Campus. These efforts ensure that cultural heritage is documented and shared with the public, balancing development with historical preservation.
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Multiple traces discovered at archaeological excavation Flora Campus Westland
The archaeological excavation in the area where the future Flora Campus Westland is being built is in full swing. Following earlier trial trench investigations that uncovered minor finds, the current follow-up research is already yielding many new insights.
According to archaeologist Lourens van der Feijst (ADC Archeologie), it is still too early to speak of a complete Roman settlement, but the initial results indicate a long-term presence of Romans in the Westland region. "We already know that the Romans stayed here for extended periods," he explains. "Sometimes it involves a farmstead with outbuildings, sometimes a small cluster of homesteads along an old route. Even loose finds, such as a piece of terra sigillata pottery or a fibula (clasp), provide valuable information about contacts and dating."
Initial finds: remains of a Roman house
In the very first excavation pit, traces of a dwelling from Roman times have been found immediately. The house consisted of a wooden structure with wattle-and-daub walls, likely covered with a thatched roof.
Due to the high groundwater level in the Westland region, part of the wood from the structure has been exceptionally well preserved. The posts have already been safely recovered and are being further examined.
It also appears that the water level was already high in Roman times and rose even further in the third century. To keep the area habitable, the inhabitants raised the ground level. A similar layer of raised soil has also been discovered and is currently being documented in detail. In addition, human bone remains have been found. Lourens: "In Roman times, relatives were sometimes buried beneath the house. These smaller finds are also important for the bigger picture."
Open day for residents
Interested parties will soon be able to view the excavation in person. On Saturday, April 11, the municipality of Westland, in collaboration with ADC Archeologie, Archol, and the Westlands Museum, is organizing an open day. Residents can get up close to see what lies hidden beneath their feet and what stories the soil reveals.
More information about April 11 can be found via the Flora Campus Westland website (Links to an external website).