Hundreds of weapons from the Roman era have been unearthed in a city park in southeastern France.
According to Le Figaro, these discovered weapons are believed to be remnants of the Battle of Lyon, which took place on February 19, 197 AD. This battle is regarded as the largest confrontation between two Roman armies.
The number of weapons from the Roman battle found underground at Clos de la Visitation Park in Lyon, France, includes arrowheads, weapon fragments, military equipment, and even severed heads.
Over 350 items from an ancient Roman battle have been unearthed.
Among the more than 350 artifacts discovered, archaeologists also found iron helmets, spearheads, swords, and two bronze grappling hooks.
This discovery was announced by archaeologists after participating in excavations at Clos de la Visitation Park, which began on July 3, with the involvement of students.
In an interview with Lyon Capitale, Caroline Lefèvre, a student at the University of Lyon 2, expressed, “It’s amazing to be involved in this field. It’s completely different from theory.”
The area excavated by the research team is believed to be the site of a weapons depot—a prime location for uncovering artifacts from the Roman battle. These excavations will help researchers understand “the dating of the military camp, its form and function.”
Benjamin Clémenti, a professor and researcher at the University of Franche-Comté and director of these excavations, stated: “The levels of these barracks are related to the famous Battle of Lyon on February 19, 197.”
The Battle of Lyon, also known as the Battle of Lugdunum, occurred between the army of Roman Emperor Septimius Severus and the usurper Clodius Albinus. The total forces of both armies are estimated to have reached 300,000 men. Emperor Septimius Severus emerged victorious, decapitating Clodius Albinus.
However, archaeologists have indicated that no further excavations will be conducted next year, as researchers wish to dedicate this time to studying previous findings and publishing some research papers on the artifacts.
