Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of a Roman military watchtower in Mohovo, a village along the Danube River in Croatia. This structure, dating back approximately 1,800 years, was part of the Roman frontier system known as the Limes, which marked the empire's boundary along the Danube.
The watchtower was strategically positioned to monitor crossings over the Danube, providing visual communication with nearby garrisons. Its location offered natural protection on three sides, enhancing its defensive capabilities. The structure underwent at least three phases of construction, indicating adaptations to evolving military needs over the centuries. By the fourth century A.D., it was likely succeeded by a smaller fortification.
Excavations at the site revealed artifacts such as military equipment, brooches, and ceramic vessels, offering insights into the daily life of Roman soldiers stationed at the frontier. The discovery of this watchtower contributes to the broader understanding of Roman military architecture and defense strategies along the Danubian Limes.
This find is part of ongoing efforts to map and protect Roman fortifications along the Danube, with the aim of recognizing these sites as part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. The Mohovo watchtower is the first systematically researched watchtower along the Limes in Croatia, marking a significant advancement in the study of Roman frontier defenses.