The most completely reconstructed Roman fort in Germany, the Saalburg lies on the main ridge of the Taunus mountain range, part way between Bad Homburg and Wehrheim. It has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and forms part of the Limes Germanicus, a line of frontier fortifications that bound the ancient Roman provinces.
Evidence indicates that a simple wood and earth fort was first established here in 90 AD before being replaced by a larger cohort fort in 135 AD. The dry-built wood and stone walls were replaced by mortared stone walls and an earthen ramp in the late-2nd century, which is what the reconstructed fort seen today is based upon.
The Saalburg was typical of Roman linear fortifications in the region, with a double ditch and mortared defensive wall enclosing its interior. It features round-ed corners and four gates flanked by towers, with an exterior that was white-washed and painted with a trompe-l'œil pattern of ashlar blocks.
Explore the assembly hall and the horreum provisions store, as well as the two barracks buildings that have had their interiors rebuilt. Today the horreum fea-tures exhibits detailing the history, culture and architecture of Roman Germania, with an outstanding collection of military artifacts and domestic tools.
In addition to being the most completely reconstructed Limes Germanicus fort, it is also the only one of its kind to have had its adjacent settlement (vicus) partially excavated. Wander through the ruins of a bathing house and the foundations of residential houses, then visit the shrine to the Mithras, a deity that was popular with the Roman army.