Roman military camps were part of the defensive border system known as the Limes Romanus. These camps played an important role in protecting the borders of the Roman Empire. Smaller military camps were also called castellum. They had a square or rectangular layout and consisted of commander’s quarters, officers’ residences, barracks for soldiers, an armory, a hospital, storage buildings, and a central sanctuary used for religious purposes. Initially, these castella were protected by defensive ditches and wooden or earthen ramparts. As the need for stronger fortifications grew, these defenses were gradually replaced by more durable stone walls.

On the territory of present-day Slovakia, remains of two Roman military camps have been preserved: Kelemantia near Komárno and Gerulata in Rusovce.

Kelemantia near Komárno

Kelemantia is located near the village of Iža, about 7 kilometers east of the Slovak town of Komárno. It was the only Roman fortress constructed on the left (northern) bank of the Danube River. The fortress had a square layout measuring 172 by 172 meters and contained 11 barracks for soldiers.

Today, the preserved stone foundations of the fortress can still be seen, as they have been conserved in place. Kelemantia is listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

During several archaeological excavations at this site, coins, jewelry, tools, and parts of soldiers’ equipment were discovered. Some of these finds are now exhibited at the Danube Museum in Komárno.

Opening Hours

Kelemantia is open to visitors year-round and admission is completely free.

How to get there?

Kelemantia is located right next to the dam.

• By Bike: If you like cycling, you’ll enjoy the easy ride from Komárno.
  
• On Foot: From the nearby village of Iža, a pleasant 4-kilometer walking trail leads directly to the site.
  
• By Car: Parking is available near the dam, just a short stroll from the entrance to Kelemantia.

Gerulata in Rusovce

Gerulata is located in the village of Rusovce, near the Slovak capital, Bratislava. The name Gerulata is of Celtic origin. The fortress was built in the 1st century AD and remained in use until the 4th century, when Roman legions withdrew from the territory. Like most Roman castella, Gerulata featured a square ground plan, measuring 150 by 150 meters. But only a small part of it has survived to this day.

Since 2021, Gerulata has been listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

In addition to the preserved remains of the fort’s foundations, visitors can also view archaeological finds uncovered during excavations. These valuable artifacts are exhibited in an adjacent building. Inside this building, there is also an interactive video game that offers a glimpse into what Gerulata looked like in its original form.

Opening Hours

Gerulata is managed by the Bratislava City Museum. It is open during regular opening hours. An admission fee is required, which includes a guided tour.

How to get there?

Gerulata is located in the residential area of the village of Rusovce. The easiest way to reach it is by parking your car on Maďarská Street, where a designated parking area is available. From there, it’s just a 200-meter walk to the site.

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