Limesfest APX Xanten – Rome's Legions on the Rhine

5 Years of UNESCO World Heritage Lower Rhine Limes

In 2021, the Lower Rhine Limes was inscribed as a transnational UNESCO World Heritage site "Frontiers of the Roman Empire" – together with the Dutch Limes sites. Five years later, the LVR Archaeological Park Xanten celebrates this anniversary with a particularly large-scale Limesfest XXL: two days, over 400 participants, the entire 73-hectare park grounds as a stage.

Xanten — the largest reconstructed Roman city north of the Alps

On the grounds of the LVR Archaeological Park Xanten (APX), Colonia Ulpia Traiana stood 2,000 years ago, a Roman provincial capital with up to 10,000 inhabitants. Today, with its reconstructed city gate, amphitheater, harbor temple, city wall, and residential quarters, the park is Germany's largest open-air archaeological park. During the Limesfest, this backdrop will be brought to life by reenactors from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, and other European countries.

The 400+ Participants

The reenactment is organized according to Roman areas of life: Legionaries and auxiliary troops in historically accurate armor and weaponry, riders and horse troops with ancient saddles and bridles, traders with goods from across the empire, craftsmen demonstrating pottery, blacksmithing, leatherworking, as well as women, children, and slaves representing civilian life. This creates a comprehensive picture of life in the Roman province of Germania Inferior.

Program Highlights 2026

Highlights of the festival:

• Grand military parades on the city wall and in the amphitheater
• Equestrian games (Hippika Gymnasia) – Roman cavalry demonstrations with javelins and mask helmets
• Catapult demonstrations – firing exercises with ballistae and onagers
• Camp life – complete reenactment camps on the park grounds
• Craft demonstrations and hands-on activities for families
• Traders' market with ancient goods, jewelry, ceramics, wine

Xanten and the Lower Rhine

Xanten is located in the Wesel district on the Lower Rhine – a region rich in Roman history. Besides the APX, Xanten boasts the St. Viktor Cathedral, a landmark of the Lower Rhine, and a historic town center. For day-trippers, a combination is worthwhile: Limesfest during the day, followed by a stroll through the town and a visit to the cathedral.

Travel and Services

Important: The APXpress shuttle train within the park will not operate during the Limesfest – the entire program area is needed. Instead, visitors will walk through the park. Recommendation: comfortable shoes, sun protection, water.