Cultural History Main Structure: Archaeology, Roman fortresses

Much of South Holland belonged to the Roman Empire 2000 to 1500 years ago. The Oude Rijn (between Bodegraven and Valkenburg) formed the border, also called Limes. Along the south bank of the river was a road, on which six military forts had been built within South Holland. The fortifications at Valkenburg, Leiden, Alphen aan den Rijn and Zwammerdam are known from excavations. Nieuwerbrug and Bodegraven also have fortresses but we do not know their exact location. A seventh fort (the Brittenburg) was located near Katwijk aan Zee but, after coast exit, disappeared into the sea. Between the forts, at regular distances, were fortified watchtowers. During excavations in Valkenburg, two of these watchtowers have recently been found.