Castra Arelape, Roman fortress in Pöchlarn, Austria
Castra Arelape is a Roman military fortress that extends from Thörringplatz toward the northwest near the current castle. The site has three defensive ditches in front of its southern walls, which once formed a strong barrier against attack.
The fortress was built in the second half of the 2nd century and served as a military center for many generations. Archaeological layers show continuous occupation and rebuilding from the 1st through the 5th century.
The site shows how soldiers and civilian families lived side by side in this border region for many centuries. The burial grounds reveal the everyday lives of people who made this military outpost their home.
Roman artifacts and remains of the fortress are on display at the Pöchlarn City Museum, which can be visited by appointment. The museum helps interpret what you see on the ground at this archaeological site.
In the 4th century, the site served as a base for river patrol ships on the Danube and sat beside an old river channel. This waterway separated the military zone from civilian settlements and made the location strategically valuable.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
