Augst: Augusta Raurica and Roman History
Accommodation in Augst
Augst is a municipality in the Liestal district of the canton of Basel-Landschaft, Switzerland. It lies at an elevation of about 275 meters above sea level on a gravel terrace on both sides of the Ergolz. North of the village, the Ergolz flows into the Rhine; the Violenbach also flows into the Ergolz there.
The Roman site of Augusta Raurica lies between Augst and Kaiseraugst. Its attractions include an ancient theater, an amphitheater, a temple, a forum, and baths. The open-air site of Augusta Raurica is open around the clock, 365 days a year.
Theater, Amphitheater, and Roman House
The scenic theater is the best-preserved ancient structure of its kind north of the Alps and had seating for around 10,000 spectators. The amphitheater is a separate structure: in Roman times, it could hold up to 13,000 people. The two figures refer to the capacities of different buildings. A small exhibition in the amphitheater’s Carcer offers insight into gladiatorial combat.
The Roman House recreates the home of a wealthy Roman family. The complex is modeled on a town villa in Pompeii. Visitors may handle many of the everyday objects there, bringing to life the difference between a reconstructed living environment and simply viewing it.
Artifacts, Mosaics, and Historic Gardens
The museum at Augusta Raurica displays a selection from more than two million archived artifacts. The exhibition on mosaic art adds another highlight: it is located in the basement of the Curia and is one of Augst’s attractions. The magnificent gardens of the Castelen estate are also among the area’s historic features; they are listed in the Inventory of Historic Gardens of Switzerland.
Animal Park and Nature
The Augusta Raurica animal park is home to Valais Blacknose sheep, Nera Verzasca goats, woolly pigs, and colorful poultry. These animals resemble Roman livestock. The park also focuses on turtle doves and yellow-bellied toads, which are listed on the Red Lists: it provides them with a protected habitat. Augusta Raurica thus brings together the themes of Roman agriculture and protected animal species.
Trail and Hike
The Gladiator Trail runs from the center of Augusta Raurica to the amphitheater and includes seven stops. The exercises can be accessed on a smartphone. The trail is about 800 meters long from the theater and about 500 meters from P3; it takes around 45 minutes. The different starting points and approximate figures help you estimate how much time to allow for this activity.
Another route option is the hike from Liestal to Augusta Raurica. It follows the Ergolz to FĂĽllinsdorf and continues to Augst, and is suitable for strollers. The route information therefore differs: the Gladiator Trail includes a length and approximate duration, while the hike information gives the route and stroller accessibility.
Roman Food Culture and Directions
In the “Experience Roman Food Culture” workshop, participants prepare Roman specialties and eat them at a buffet. If you plan to take part, check the dates and booking details in advance, as both may change.
The road connections also help you find your way: Main Road 3 between Basel and Rheinfelden runs through Augst. The A2 motorway crosses the municipal area; at the “Augst” interchange, the A3 branches off toward Rheinfelden.
Discover more destinations: Pratteln, Bubendorf, Hersberg, Arisdorf, Liestal
Back to the main travel overview: Liestal.
