During an excavation in IJsselstein, archaeologists from ADC Archeoprojecten stumbled upon a Roman burial field. So far, four burial mounds have been uncovered. The discovery of the burial mounds is special because they are virtually undisturbed. They are also well preserved due to a thick layer of clay.
In the Netherlands, only disturbed burial mounds or circular ditches are often found. Most burial mounds were razed to the ground in the nineteenth or twentieth century to allow agriculture or house building. The good preservation of the hills in IJsselstein gives archaeologists a good idea of the structure of the soil layers (stratigraphy). This is important, among other things, in order to be able to draw landscape conclusions about the period in which the hills were built.
Digging in IJsselstein
The excavation is taking place in connection with the construction of a new municipal yard on the Over Oudland industrial estate. The excavation will be continued later this year. It is possible that more graves will be discovered in the follow-up investigation.
The graves found in IJsselstein consist of a cremation grave, an earthen mound (the so-called 'tumulus') and a circular ditch. One of the graves has already been partially explored. Cremation remains have been found here, but also grave goods such as two bowls of the Roman pottery terra sigillata, a jug and a large plate.
Dating
The hills roughly date from the Middle Roman period (70-270 AD). Fortunately, the discovery of the grave goods makes it possible to give a more precise date:the terra sigillata pottery can be dated to the first half of the second century AD.
The burial field probably belongs to the Roman settlement that was already discovered in 2001, about 200 meters away. This probably consisted of four or five farms. The Romans had the custom to bury their dead outside settlements, and along roads.
Open day
On 12 December there will be an open day for the public at the excavation in IJsselstein. Those interested can then take a look at the burial mounds. The archaeologists involved will be present that day to provide guided tours.
See further
- Rich royal tomb from prehistoric times