Bentumersiel

Bentumersiel is an archaeological site on an elevated riverbank in Jemgum municipality near the mouth of the Ems River. The excavation area covers two hectares of marshland and reveals the remains of dwellings and defensive structures from an ancient settlement.

Initial discoveries occurred in 1928 during clay extraction, prompting later systematic research efforts. Major excavations between 2006 and 2008 uncovered Roman ceramics and amphorae that document trade connections to distant regions.

The Germanic settlement at Bentumersiel marks the historical boundary between Frisian and Chauken territories along the Ems River during ancient times.

The site lies in marshland and becomes quite wet in rainy conditions, so appropriate footwear is important. Clear pathways lead to marked excavation areas that are viewable from accessible points.

Inhabitants constructed defensive structures before building dwellings, indicating that protection was the priority in this strategic location at the river mouth. This unusual construction sequence sets the settlement apart from many contemporary sites in the region.

Location: Lower Saxony

GPS coordinates: 53.24630,7.39122

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:03