Villa rustica of Hartberg, Roman villa archaeological site in Hartberg Umgebung, Austria.
The Villa rustica of Hartberg is an excavated Roman country estate with preserved foundations that reveal a large property from the imperial period. The layout includes a central courtyard, residential quarters, covered porticoes, and on the western side a sophisticated bathing system with multiple pools.
The estate was a private property of wealthy Romans between the 2nd and 3rd centuries that functioned as an economic and administrative center in this region. It remained a place of power and prosperity across generations before eventually falling into decline.
The villa shows through its features how wealthy Romans lived in this region and displayed their status. The elaborate bathing complex and central courtyard reflect a lifestyle that set residents apart from the surrounding population.
The archaeological site is located in a rural setting and accessible by simple paths that may vary in condition depending on the season. It is advisable to wear sturdy footwear and expect muddy ground after rain.
A northwestern building on the site was a judicial hall where the landowner settled disputes between farmers and workers. This arrangement shows that the owner held not only economic but also legal authority over the region.
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