An unknown Roman Quarter found in the heart of Metz

The excavation will inevitably increase our knowledge of the evolution of the city over five centuries. The buildings on site are arranged on both sides of a road lined with pavements. They date to the 1^st to 3^rd centuries B.C. Some of the rooms have under floor heating (hypocausts) and others are decorated with stucco, marble and wall paintings. Some column bases are still in place. Significant change occurs during the 4^th century, while during the 5^th to 6^th centuries, numerous craftsmen arrive (metallurgy, etc.).

Pottery, glass fragments, bone combs, and weaving tools all contribute to our understanding of the daily life of the inhabitants of this quarter from the end of the 1^st century to the 3^rd century. Abundant animal remains (beef, pork, veal, poultry) discovered in large pits inform us about the diet of the period, as well as the numerous craft activities practiced. The natural conditions of the site, particularly the rise of the water table since the Roman period, have made possible the preservation of organic materials, such as the wooden lining of a well, shoe soles and seeds.