Oberstimm: Fort and Roman Boat Wrecks

Roman history in Oberstimm brings together military organization and archaeological finds. The fort, established around 40 AD, and the Roman boat wrecks from Oberstimm highlight different aspects of the past. The road network also offers a practical point of reference for planning your trip.

Roman Fort and Boat Wrecks

The Roman fort at Oberstimm was established around 40 AD. It undertook regional supply duties for other military sites in the area. A partially mounted cohort of around 500 men was stationed at the fort. This highlights both the role that extended beyond the individual site and the approximate size of the unit.

Two wooden boat wrecks dating from around 100 AD were discovered during excavations in 1986. The Roman boat wrecks from Oberstimm are the best-preserved Roman military vessels north of the Alps. Their dating, material, and state of preservation give the finds a distinct place alongside the history of the fort: here, the focus is on military vessels and the archaeological record, rather than the unit’s supply duties.

The Barthelmarkt: Origins and Dates

Today’s Barthelmarkt grew out of a horse and livestock market. It takes place every year on the August weekend that includes the last Sunday of the month, and runs from Friday through Monday inclusive. If you are including the market in your travel plans, check the event dates for that year.

Getting There and Choosing Accommodation

Oberstimm is located directly on the B13 and B16 roads, and just a few minutes’ drive from the A9 Munich–Nuremberg motorway. When looking for accommodation, you can use this location as a guide when making your selection and compare it with your own travel plans.

Celtic and Roman History in the Broader Travel Destination of Manching

Celtic history is also in focus in the broader travel destination of Manching. The Celtic rampart around the former settlement of Manching was a circular enclosure with four gates, surrounding the settlement in an oval. It was 7.5 kilometers long and 2.25 kilometers wide; sections of the rampart, which stood up to four meters high, are still visible. These dimensions give an idea of its extent.

The Celtic Vindelici settled in Manching from around 450 BC, east of the Paar River and south of the former main course of the Danube. The Manching Archaeological Trail follows the Celtic rampart, built in the 2nd century BC. It is a circular route that starts right at the kelten römer museum. Twenty information panels at eleven locations cover the Celtic and Roman past.

The kelten römer museum in Manching presents original finds, illustrative models, partial reconstructions at a 1:1 scale, and interactive exhibits on the Celtic and Roman periods across 1,200 m². Since exhibitions can change, it is worth checking the latest information before visiting.

The Messerschmitt Aviation Museum is also located in Manching. Its collection includes eight airworthy aircraft bearing the Messerschmitt name; which aircraft are on display may vary. Because it is located on the Airbus site, the museum has limited public access. Guided tours take place about once a month, places are limited, and certain conditions apply. Participation must be confirmed in advance.

For the broader travel overview: Manching.