Passau, the city on the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, is not only known for its baroque old town, but also for its rich Roman history. Built on the foundations of the late antique fort Boiotro, the Roman Museum invites you on a fascinating journey through time. It has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Roman Danube Limes" since 2021 and impressively conveys the importance of this historic border region.
The history of the Boiotro fort
Boiotro Castle was built around 280 AD as a military outpost to secure the Roman border along the Danube. The remains of the fort walls and a watchtower are visible in the museum and on the neighbouring open-air site. These artefacts provide an insight into the lives of Roman soldiers and the strategic importance of the region in late antiquity.
Exhibits and highlights at the Roman Museum Passau
The museum impresses with an extensive collection of more than 600 artefacts that trace the history of Passau from the Stone Age to the end of the Roman period. Particular highlights include the Peutinger tablet, a Roman road map, and a mortar with a preserved purchase price - a rare insight into the everyday life of the Romans. The exhibition is complemented by interactive elements such as light installations, touchscreens and a film showing an impressive reconstruction of ancient Passau.
Thematic levels in the museum
The exhibitions in the Roman Museum Kastell Boiotro are organised thematically on three levels and offer a comprehensive insight into the Roman history of the region. Right from the entrance area, visitors are introduced to the historical development of Passau with a timeline and maps. In the basement, the focus is on trade and the economy of Roman times. Topics such as the salt trade, the Roman customs system and the production of terra sigillata are vividly conveyed through artefacts and audio stations. The light installation that visualises the construction history of the fort is particularly impressive. On the upper floor, the civil and military life of the Romans as well as the wine trade and the role of women take centre stage. Models and original artefacts, such as the Boiodurum camp village, illustrate the daily routines and social structures of the Roman imperial period and late antiquity.
Linking finds and historical texts
A special feature of the museum is the combination of archaeological finds with historical texts. Texts about St Severin, who founded a monastery in Fort Boiotro, and stories about women such as the estate manageress Flora convey a vivid picture of the transition period from Roman rule to the Migration Period.
Culinary tip: stop off at the Bayerischer Löwe inn
After an exciting visit to the Roman Museum at Fort Boiotro, it is worth making a detour to the Bayerischer Löwe inn, which is just a short walk away. On the way back to the train station, the route leads over the Innsteg and Augustinergasse directly to Dr.-Hans-Kapfinger-Straße, where the traditional pub is located at number 3.
Look forward to savoury delicacies such as roast pork, dumplings or a crispy pretzel, perfectly accompanied by the Bavarian Lion's house beer, which is served in a stone mug according to an old recipe. Whether in the idyllic beer garden or in the cosy pub - here you can end your day in Passau in a relaxed atmosphere before taking the train back home.
Practical information about the Roman Museum Passau
The Roman Museum Kastell Boiotro is open from March to mid-November. It is just a short walk from the old town and can be easily combined with a visit to Passau's other sights. Opening times and further information can be found on the museum's website.
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