A good 2,000 years before Mechernich was granted town rights in 1972, the Romans used the area now covered by the town to mine lead ore. However, they were not the first to do so: finds of Celtic coins in old mining shafts reveal that the "black gold" had been mined here many years before.
Over 25 kilometres of Roman aqueduct
Among the most impressive relics from Roman times are well-preserved fragments of the aqueduct that was built in the first century, initially between Mechernich and Cologne and later extending to Nettersheim. As the aqueduct ran for over 25 kilometres through what is now Mechernich, it is hardly surprising that several archaeological sites scattered throughout the town offer insights into the Roman canal. These include the well house near Kallmuth and the Eiserfey reservoir, where two pipelines converged into one main pipeline. Other examples of Roman architecture worth seeing are the aqueduct bridges near Vollem and Vussem, as well as the remains of buildings near Breitenbenden, which probably belonged to a canal maintenance depot.
Via Agrippa Adventure Region in Mechernich
In the north of Mechernich, the Via Agrippa Adventure Route begins at the former Via Agrippa. Walkers can follow the historic route of the road from here in the Eickser Busch. Those who prefer to cycle can use the asphalted cycle paths. Large differences in altitude in the urban area lead to some challenging climbs – and beautiful views that make every effort worthwhile.
