Xanten

The small Rhine town Xanten shows its history on its streets, but its imposing 13th century cathedral of St Viktor seems out of all proportion. The mystery of its size lies in the legend of the Theban Legion martyrs of the Roman period, interlocked with Xanten's past.

The facts behind Xanten's Roman origins are proven by excavations next to the town, which have uncovered two former legionary camps and a settlement. Parts of the early colonia have been recreated in the huge LVR-Archäologischer Park Xanten.

The structures include walls, fortified gates, houses and an amphitheatre. A museum has been built for the finds.