Archaeologists uncovered a rare Roman iron window grille in Switzerland, complete with original nails, offering new insights into ancient domestic architecture.
Roman window grille discovered in Switzerland
Archaeologists have uncovered a complete Roman window grille made of iron at Augusta Raurica, near Basel, Switzerland. The grille was found on October 8, 2026, at a depth of 1.70 meters near a reconstructed Roman house in Augst, east of Basel.Structure of the iron window grille
The grille consists of five iron bars connected by two flat bars that serve as crosspieces. Loops on its edges were likely used to attach it to the wooden frame of the window, with two nails from this attachment still in place.Context of the discovery
The window opened into a masonry structure built with stone and mortar. The archaeologists have proposed two possible scenarios for how the grille came to be buried: either a fire caused the collapse of the wall, or the entire building collapsed, burying the grille under debris.New insights into Roman domestic architecture
This rare artifact provides valuable insight into Roman domestic architecture, shedding light on the materials and methods used in constructing Roman homes. The grille’s discovery highlights the importance of ongoing archaeological work in the region.Previous excavations and new findings
The area, now a parking lot, had been excavated twice in the 1990s, but recent work has revealed a section of the wall. The size and date of the building are still unknown, leaving further research needed to fully understand its role in the Roman settlement.
