Guided visit
Around 50 BCE, famous Roman Julius Caesar wrote: “Horum omnium fortissimi sunt Belgae” (“Of all these, the Belgae are the bravest”). He added that their bravery stemmed from living far from civilization—i.e., Roman influence—and close to the warlike Germanic tribes. But is that true?
During the Roman occupation of regions now known as France, Belgium, and parts of the Netherlands and Germany, the Romans brought many items said to “weaken the spirit” (as Caesar put it), such as elegant tableware and jewellery. In the museum, students discover how homes became more comfortable through...
Around 50 BCE, famous Roman Julius Caesar wrote: “Horum omnium fortissimi sunt Belgae” (“Of all these, the Belgae are the bravest”). He added that their bravery stemmed from living far from civilization—i.e., Roman influence—and close to the warlike Germanic tribes. But is that true?
During the Roman occupation of regions now known as France, Belgium, and parts of the Netherlands and Germany, the Romans brought many items said to “weaken the spirit” (as Caesar put it), such as elegant tableware and jewellery. In the museum, students discover how homes became more comfortable through innovations like hypocaust heating systems and roof tiles. A well-maintained road network facilitated trade in luxury goods like glass, gemstones, and spices.
Students gain insight into daily life during the Gallo-Roman period, distinguishing Roman contributions from those rooted in Gallic culture. By critically examining objects, students learn to separate fact from fiction while recognizing archaeology’s crucial role in shaping our understanding of the past.
