A variety of artefacts potentially dating from the Iron Age (800-57 BC), the Modern Age, and possibly even the Bronze Age (2100-800 BC) have been uncovered in Riemst, Limburg.
The discoveries were made during recent excavations on land designated for the expansion of the Op ‘t Reeck III commercial zone.
“This site connects the past with the future,” commented Riemst Mayor Mark Vos (CD&V). “Finding valuable traces while expanding Op ‘t Reeck highlights the importance of prioritising archaeological research as a Heritage Site.”
The excavations took place over the past few weeks after initial archaeological assessments earlier this year indicated the presence of remnants from multiple historical periods. The site was thoroughly examined by archaeology firm Studiebureau Archeologie bv.
The archaeologists discovered the layouts of two significant buildings dating back to the Iron Age, each measuring about 7 metres by 5 metres. Soil discolourations also suggested the presence of various auxiliary structures supported by wooden posts.
Numerous silos or storage pits from the Iron Age, potentially even from the Bronze Age were also found. These pits were later used, on many occasions, as refuse sites, and contain a wealth of artefacts. Furthermore, traces from the Modern Age were detected, possibly linked to military events such as the Battle of Lafelt (1747).
With the excavations completed, the expansion of the commercial zone can now proceed. Archaeologists will meticulously study the collected materials over the coming months and compile their findings into a detailed report.
“The site offers a unique insight into how residents organised their settlements, practiced agriculture, and shaped their environment over the centuries,” concluded Gabriella Kaszas, an archaeologist at IOED Oost-Haspengouw & Voeren. “The continuity observed here makes this location particularly intriguing for further research.”
