Aquincum, the ruins of a city on the edge of Budapest

Wandering around the almost 2000 years old ruins it is hard to imagine that there used to be a city here, where people lived their everyday lives. Aquincum, the capital of Alsó-Pannónia one time is truncated today, but still amazing, says vjm.hu.

The hand of the rapidly expanding Roman Empire reached even the land of Pannonia. After its traders made sure that the area is perfect for settling thanks to its favourable natural features and geographical conditions of transport, soon soldiers also arrived in the area which is Óbuda today. When we mention Aquincum nowadays, we simply mean the area railed off, which is visible from far away with its conduits if we drive along the Szentendrei út. But it is important to see that Aquincum does not stand for this part only.

The city originally consisted of three parts: firstly, the soldiers’ quarter, the extension of which we know pretty exactly; secondly, a legion camp, the inhabitants of which were the members of the elite team of 6000 people; thirdly, the communal city, hallmarked by the water pipes, although only a part of it can be seen on the surface.

The first remnant of the city was found by a vine-grower in Óbuda in 1778, while he was digging a stack. It was a part of the famous Roman floor heating. But the excavations that time did more harm than good, because they had no methodology and were too hurried. This might have resulted in more artefacts being damaged or getting lost.

Professional excavation started only in the end of the 19^th century, when the objects and building remains were conserved as well.

The city centre was built in the crossing of the Eastern and Western roads. We can go anywhere in the world and see any Roman province or even Rome itself, the most important buildings of public administration will be found in this junction. Here you can find the Sanctuary, where sacrifices can be presented for Juno, Jupiter, or Minerva, in hope for a better future. Although Romans did not expect the Celtic tribes settling in the area before them to identify with their culture, religion, and customs, but they required them to sacrifice in this spot once every year.