Römischer Wachturm 10/37

The Upper Germanic-Rhaetian Limes, with a length of 550 km, from Eining near Regensburg to Rheinbrohl on the Rhine, is the largest archaeological monument in Germany and has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Limes (Latin: border path/wall) refers to the border fortifications of the Roman Empire, which were erected towards the end of the 1st century AD.

This border was monitored by more than 900 towers, which were built in timber construction during the initial phase, starting around 80 AD. Stone towers followed, which were plastered from 150 AD onwards. Excavations have shown that the white plaster often had incised joints, which were painted in terracotta. This created the impression of beautiful ashlar masonry.

Watchtower 10/37 is one of the most unusual findings among all Limes towers and continues to puzzle scientists to this day. A timber tower site with a total diameter of 20 m was found, as well as two stone tower sites. Both stone tower foundations have been reconstructed. The western one has ordinary dimensions of 6 × 6 m. Unusual about the eastern tower, measuring 6.60 × 6.60 m, is a staircase later added to its north side. A dedicatory inscription to Jupiter was immured in the open staircase. It was placed to fulfill a vow for the completion of the burgus and probably refers to the western tower.

Latin text:         
I·O·M
VEXIL
COH·I
SEQ·ET·RAVR
EQ·SVB·CVR
ANTON·NATA
LIS·LEG XXII·P
P·F·OB·BURG·EX
PLIC·V·S·L·L·M

Reading:
Iovi Optimo Maximo
vexillatio
cohortis I
Sequanorum et Rauracorum
equitatae sub cura
Antonii Nata-
lis (centurionis) legionis XXII Primigeniae
Piae Fidelis ob burgum ex-
plicitum votum solvit laetus libens merito

Translation:
To Jupiter, Best and Greatest, from the construction detachment of the mounted 1st Cohort of the Sequani and Rauraci, under the command of Antonius Natalis, centurion of the 22nd Legion Primigenia Pia Fidelis, for the completion of the burgus (tower). He has gladly, joyfully, and deservedly fulfilled his vow.