Betriacum, Ancient Roman vicus in Calvatone, Italy

Betriacum is a Roman settlement on the right bank of the Oglio River with remains of buildings and defensive structures from imperial times. The site reveals foundations of dwellings, storage facilities, and fortification systems spanning several centuries.

Betriacum was a Roman vicus on the right bank of the Oglio, guarding a river crossing. In 69 AD it saw two battles: the first between the troops of Otho and Vitellius, won by Vitellius; the second between forces loyal to Vitellius and those of Vespasian under Marcus Antonius Primus, won by the latter.

Excavations have uncovered pottery and coins that are now displayed at the Museo Platina in Piadena. These objects help visitors understand how ordinary people lived at this Roman settlement in daily life.

The site can be visited, but access may be limited depending on ongoing excavation work conducted seasonally. Wear flat shoes as the terrain is uneven and pathways are not always clearly marked.

The artefacts dug up at Betriacum, identified by excavations of the Università degli Studi di Milano, are not kept on site: part of them is displayed at the Museo Platina in Piadena, a few kilometres away. A visitor who only walks the riverbank at Calvatone sees the ground, not the finds.