The Crap-Ses Gorge, located near Savognin, is believed to be the site of a significant Roman battle in 15 BC. Archaeological evidence, including weapons and a Roman military camp, reflects the clash between the Roman forces and the Suanetes tribe. The Romans, led by Lucius Calpurnius Piso Pontifex, utilized superior weaponry and tactics, including slingers, to secure victory. Ongoing research aims to further understand this pivotal historical encounter and its lasting impact on the region.
Unearthing Ancient Battlefields: The Story of the Crap-Ses Gorge
In the breathtaking landscape surrounding Savognin, characterized by rugged rocks, deep gorges, and verdant meadows, lies a historical treasure trove. It is believed that a significant battle of Roman history unfolded here in the summer of 15 BC. Archaeological findings at the Crap-Ses gorge, which include remnants of swords, spearheads, and countless lead projectiles, point towards this ancient battlefield. Recent discoveries of a Roman military camp have also garnered international attention.
During this era, Emperor Augustus was intent on expanding the Roman Empire, aiming to conquer Germania magna. Peter Schwarz, a professor at the University of Basel, explains that achieving this objective necessitated control over the direct route through the Rhaetian Alps. Previously, Augustus’ stepsons had already explored other paths: Tiberius ventured west from Lyon to Lake Constance, while Drusus took the eastern route through the Brenner and Reschen Passes. However, the existence of a third route through modern-day Switzerland had lacked clear archaeological backing until now. The recent findings in Graubünden suggest that Roman forces, comprised of over a thousand soldiers led by Lucius Calpurnius Piso Pontifex, likely marched north along the ancient mule path over the Septimer Pass.
The Clash of Cultures: Rhaetians vs. Romans
In this historical encounter, the Suanetes tribe, residing in the Alpine region, faced a Roman army that vastly outnumbered them. Despite their fierce resistance, the Suanetes ultimately succumbed to the might of the Roman military. This battle against the Rhaetian tribal confederations marked a pivotal moment in history, heralding a Roman presence in present-day Switzerland that would last over four centuries.
As Schwarz highlights, the Roman victory was bolstered by a dedicated unit of slingers who unleashed a barrage of lead projectiles upon their foes. The remnants of this armed conflict still lie embedded in the earth, with metal detectors revealing over 450 ancient lead projectiles at this high-altitude battlefield, located at 1300 meters above sea level. Hannes Flück, a researcher with the Archaeological Service of Graubünden, notes that such a quantity of projectiles has never been found in a high-altitude setting.
To better understand the characteristics and effectiveness of Roman sling projectiles, an interdisciplinary team conducted field experiments near Savognin and at a Swiss Army shooting range. They aimed to ascertain the accuracy and speed of these ancient weapons. The world champion slinger, Silvio Vass, was enlisted to demonstrate the technique and efficacy of slinging. Using a braided hemp sling, Vass showcases how the lead projectile can be launched with incredible precision and speed, hitting targets over twenty meters away.
Research has shown that these projectiles could reach speeds of up to 130 kilometers per hour, comparable to a bullet from a .44 Magnum revolver, indicating their lethal potential. Swiss researchers are delving into the shooting dynamics and impact of Roman slings, collaborating with forensic experts to analyze the potential injuries inflicted by these ancient weapons. Through innovative testing methods, they simulate the effects of sling projectiles, revealing significant trauma that could occur even with protective gear.
While the Suanetes may have had the home advantage, their lack of equal-length spears placed them at a disadvantage against the highly trained Roman forces. Schwarz emphasizes that the local warriors were adept fighters familiar with their terrain, yet the Romans leveraged their superior weaponry to overcome the odds. Ongoing research continues to uncover more artifacts from this crucial battle, piecing together the past and shedding light on the strategies employed during this monumental clash.