Bliesbruck-Reinheim European Archaeological Park
The French part of this cutting-edge archaeological park, where visitors can learn about how the ancient Gauls lived day to day, belongs to the Moselle General Council. The accidents of contemporary history put the remains of the Gallic necropolis and the Gallo-Roman villa in Reinheim, Sarre (Germany) and the vestiges of a small Gallo-Roman town in Bliesbruck, Moselle. This part of the Blies Valley had no border in Antiquity.
In 1954, archaeologists discovered a Gallic necropolis - a Greek word meaning "city of the dead". Today, visitors can see a re-creation of the site, especially the tomb of the princess of Reinheim (400 B.C.), whose luxurious personal belongings were buried with her: a ceremonial drinking service made of bronze; amber, coral and solid gold jewellery; a mirror; and fine accessories. The decoration on these artefacts, which reveal Greek and Etruscan influences, is outstanding.
The little town was a crafts and trading centre where several thousand Gallo-Romans - Romanised Mediomatrics - lived between the first and early fifth centuries A.D. Archaeologists have excavated a bath complex and two neighbourhoods. A symbol of Romanisation, the baths include a central section (changing room, cold, warm and hot baths) a palaestra and a shopping gallery. The west crafts quarter is now the object of a museum visit.
Admission: €5, reduced price €3.50, free for children under 16. Open March 15 to November 1, 2010, every day from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Major popular events for the whole family punctuate the season at Bliesbruck-Reinheim European Archaeological Park. • 16 May: Children's Festival. Children of the 21st century discover games and activities of the past and the work of archaeologists. Free admission for all. • 14-15 August: Vita romana. With disciplined legionnaires and beautiful Roman women! Enjoy three outstanding days in addition to the exhibition. • 4-5 September: Celtic Festival. With fierce warriors and clever Gallic craftsmen.
Information: Bliesbruck-Reinheim European Archaeological Park - 1 rue Robert Schuman - 57200 BLIESBRUCK Phone: 00 33 (0) 3 87 35 02 20 - Fax: 00 33 (0)3 87 35 02 29 E-mail: bliesbruck@cg57.fr - Website: www.archeo57.com
