Roman Settlements in South Tyrol: Traces of an Imperial Past
South Tyrol preserves numerous traces of Roman presence dating back over two thousand years. The integration between the Rhaetian population and the Romans began in the 1st century BC, when the Roman army, led by General Drusus, launched several expeditions to secure control over the routes leading to Germany. Despite initial resistance, the local populations were gradually assimilated, adopting the Latin language and Roman customs.
For the following five centuries, Roman rule left indelible marks on the territory — both archaeologically and linguistically. Today, walking along the ancient routes of South Tyrol, it is still possible to admire the remains of bridges, villas, camps and consular roads that tell the story of the imperial era.
The Strategic Role of the Consular Roads
The valleys of South Tyrol were crossed by important Roman communication routes, essential for trade and the movement of legions. Two of the main arteries were:
- Via Claudia Augusta, built to connect Verona with the Val Venosta and northern Europe via the Resia Pass.
- Via Norica, which crossed the Val Pusteria, linking Aquileia with the Rhineland and serving as a strategic connection between Italy and the northern provinces of the Empire.
Along these roads, approximately every 40 kilometres, the Romans built “mansiones” — way stations and service stops that acted as real logistical hubs for changing horses, repairing carts, and offering rest to travellers. Around these facilities, small towns with baths and inns soon arose, eventually developing into permanent settlements. Some examples of these are:
- San Lorenzo di Sebato, which became an important road and trade junction.
- San Candido, once the site of a Roman camp that later evolved into a religious and cultural centre.
Roman Settlements and Villas: A Unique Archaeological Heritage
Beyond the road networks, the Romans left numerous examples of residential and military settlements. Among the most significant are the Roman villas — luxurious residences of officials and merchants, often equipped with mosaics, private baths and storage areas for goods.
Some of the most important archaeological sites in South Tyrol include:
- Nalles, where the remains of a Roman villa with frescoes and mosaics have been discovered.
- San Paolo-Appiano, home to the remains of an ancient Roman agricultural estate.
- Malles in Val Venosta, where traces of a Roman settlement connected to the Via Claudia Augusta can be found.
The Roman Legacy: Language, Culture and Traditions
Roman influence extended far beyond architecture, leaving a deep mark on the language and culture of South Tyrol. The local populations gradually adopted Latin, which gave rise to the Rhaeto-Romance languages, including Ladin.
Even the toponymy of the region retains traces of this heritage: many place names derive directly from Latin or are adaptations of ancient Roman terms.
The Roman settlements of South Tyrol represent a fascinating chapter in the region’s history, bearing witness to its strategic importance in antiquity. The ancient roads, mansiones and Roman villas tell the story of a time when the Roman Empire extended to the Alps, deeply influencing local culture and urban development.
Exploring these archaeological sites means embarking on a journey through time, discovering how Roman presence shaped the landscape and daily life of South Tyrol — leaving a legacy that can still be admired today.