The ancient Roman military camp was discovered at 2,200 metres in a remote region of the Swiss Alps. Fortified by three ditches and a rampart, it provided panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
[Andrea Badrutt/Chur]

Team discovers 2,000-year-old Roman Legion camp in Swiss Alps

STORY BY STEPHEN J. THORNE

Archeologists using laser technology have discovered a 2,000-year-old Roman military camp high in the Swiss Alps, uncovering a treasure trove of fortifications and artifacts, including arrowheads, slingshots and lead sling bullets bearing the stamp of the Roman 3rd Legion.

The site was found 2,200 metres up in the Colm la Runga corridor of Switzerland’s Oberhalbstein Alps near the Italian border.

The researchers from the University of Basel and the Archaeological Service of Graubünden were studying a nearby Roman-era battlefield when a volunteer discovered the encampment in images from airborne Light Detection and Ranging.

tists, writers, Jews and other non-Aryans for most of the decade.

READ MORE

More from Front Lines

• That time they held a Nazi rally at Madison Square Garden
• Raising hell: Discovering, and recovering, lost warships
• Researchers identify remains of Franklin expedition skipper

Canadian Troops preparing for attack at Paardeberg. [Wikimedia]

Victoria Cross Trio of Leliefontein: A Boer War Story of Courage

STORY BY ALEX BOWERS

Paardeberg had changed everything.

Between Feb. 18 and 27, 1900, one of the most famous clashes of the Boer War resulted in a British Empire victory against the Boers, a victory that would not have been possible without the Canadian contribution in their baptism of fire.

But the South African conflict was not yet over—far from it.

The Battle of Paardeberg indeed reversed the Imperial forces’ fortunes, followed months later by the capture of Bloemfontein and Pretoria—the respective capitals of the enemy’s Orange Free State and South African Republic (or Transvaal).

READ MORE

More from Military Milestones

• When Canada invaded Iceland: ‘Z’ Force and Operation Fork
• The forgotten grave of Canada’s first VC recipient, Alexander Roberts Dunn
• The Battle of Bowmanville

Member Benefit Partner

Deep, restorative sleep is key to improved mental and physical health.

RCL members can now save on Sleep Products!

• 25% Off Pillows and Sheets
• $100 Off Mattresses, Adjustable Base Bundles, and Lift Chairs

Call 800-455-6421 or visit https://offer.ultramaticsleep.com

Learn more