2024-03-26 19:33:28
Some 70 tombs dating from the Late Roman Empire (4th century) were discovered during excavations in the city center of Namur, the Walloon Heritage Agency (AWaP) said on Tuesday, confirming information from RTBF.
The discovery was made as part of preventive excavations carried out on the site of the former Fortis bank, between rue des Carmes and rue Godefroid. Archaeologists believe that a large part of the burials held there were destroyed during the construction of the banking establishment. Before this work, the site must have contained around 500, which would make it the largest burial cemetery at the time in Namur.
Among the approximately 70 remaining tombs brought to light, a large number are small and therefore served as the final resting place of children. Indeed, mortality among those under five was particularly high in the 4th century, due to the lack of hygiene and the absence of medicine. A few objects such as ceramics and bracelets were also discovered at the site, but the tombs were mostly looted.
Given the ongoing research, work on the site is now at a standstill. The Diversis company, which wishes to build a building there with shops and apartments, will therefore have to wait a little before continuing its real estate project.
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