Grutenhäuschen Igel, Roman tomb temple in Igel, Germany.
The Grutenhäuschen Igel is a two-story stone structure with columns, positioned on a vineyard slope along an ancient Roman road near the Moselle River. The building features basalt stonework and displays typical Roman architectural details throughout its design.
The structure was built in the third century as a burial monument for wealthy Romans. It underwent major restoration work in the mid-20th century after centuries of neglect and damage.
The lower chamber displays stone sarcophagi arranged like Roman dining couches, showing how wealthy Romans in this province honored their deceased. This layout mirrors the dining customs of the time, which people recreated even in burial spaces.
The monument is accessible throughout the year and sits within a wine-growing region with good walking trails. A visit can easily be combined with other nearby Roman sites, as this region offers many historical locations.
The structure spent centuries functioning as a vineyard cottage before scholars identified it as a Roman tomb again. This layered history shows how ancient Roman buildings were repurposed and adapted by later inhabitants for entirely new uses.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
