Roman Empire

How did the Romans manage to organise an empire spanning thousands of kilometres? How did they build roads that have survived to this day? And what was life like for soldiers, traders and families living along the frontier?
The focus is on Roman engineering and organisation. Visitors will construct a round arch and see how the keystone is what gives it its stability. During the road-building activity, cobblestones are laid according to Roman principles – the basis for centuries of durability.
The military structure is also brought to life: from the contubernium to the cohort, a legion is formed step by step – offering an insight into the clear organisation of the Roman army.
Equipment, daily life and identity
Who hasn’t wondered how heavy a legionary’s equipment was? Helmet (galea), shield (scutum), gladius and pilum are all part of it, as are marching gear, tools and cooking utensils. The exhibition shows that a legionary was not only a soldier, but also a builder and craftsman.
Another section is devoted to Roman and Celtic everyday clothing. Tunic or braccae? Brooch or belt? Here, clothing is understood as an expression of identity, rank and cultural exchange.
The Limes – Border and Encounter
A central theme of the exhibition is the Raetian Limes. It was not a continuous wall, but a sophisticated system of ramparts, palisades, forts and watchtowers. The Limes served not only for defence, but also for control, order and exchange between cultures on either side of the border.
The section on Castra Regina bridges the gap to the region. The Roman legionary camp, from which modern-day Regensburg developed, impressively demonstrates the lasting impact of Roman planning.
The Navis Lusoria – Speed on the River
A particular highlight is the 1:10 scale model of the ‘Navis Lusoria Regina’, a late Roman military river vessel. Slender, manoeuvrable and with a shallow draught, this type of ship was ideal for patrolling the Danube and the Rhine.

#burgmuseum on Instagram (external link, opens in a new window)

Last edited on 15.04.2026