Roman City Aguntum

The exact origins of Aguntum are not yet fully understood, but one theory suggests that the settlement developed from a road station on the Via Iulia Augusta. Its strategically favorable location at a junction to the Mölltal, a route for Tauern gold, enhanced its importance. Under Emperor Claudius, Aguntum experienced intensive construction and urban development. In the 1st century AD, the city wall, the atrium house, and a large thermal bath complex were erected. The city's sphere of influence extended from East Tyrol to the Pustertal. Although Aguntum remained inhabited until the 5th century AD, settlement gradually shifted to nearby Lavant from the 3rd century onwards, as its elevated position offered better protection. As early as the 16th century, ruins were visible, leading to the legend of a dwarf city, as only the low vaults of the hypocaust heating systems remained. The first excavations began in the 18th century, and since the 20th century, the Universities of Vienna and Innsbruck have been responsible for the archaeological work.

The Roman city of Aguntum is situated in Dölsach, in the Lienz district of Tyrol, Austria, at an elevation of approximately 655 m above sea level.

Visitors today can explore the impressive remains of the ancient city. These include the city wall, the atrium house, the thermal baths, the artisans' quarter, and the Macellum, a small market hall uncovered in 2006. A modern museum, opened in 2005, protects part of the atrium house and offers further insights into Aguntum's history.

• Ansitz beim Gendorfer (manor house), approx. 0.7 km away
• Ansitz Staudach (manor house), approx. 1.9 km away
• Walchenstein Castle Ruin (castle), approx. 1.9 km away
• Ehrenburg Castle Ruin (castle), approx. 3.2 km away