The Bimillenary of the Teutoburg Forest Battle

Herbert W. Benario (Emory University)

The year 2009 marks the 2000^th anniversary of the great battle in the Teutoburg Forest in northern Germany in which the Cheruscan chieftain Arminius ambushed three Roman legions, with auxiliary forces and baggage train, and destroyed them almost to a man. The ultimate impact on Rome’s territorial ambitions was great, leading to Augustus’ decision to settle for the Rhine as the eastern border of Rome’s domain in northern Europe.

Commemoration of this significant event in European history will occur at three sites, Haltern-am-See, Kalkriese, and Detmold. The first will emphasize Rome’s expansion over the centuries, focus upon her impact on German tribes and territories, and trace the career of the governor, P. Quinctilius Varus, until his defeat and suicide during the course of the battle. Kalkriese will above all display the site of the battle and the remains which have been recovered. Detmold will emphasize the Nachleben of Arminius, beginning in the sixteenth century, which transformed him into the first great German national hero, with the name Herrmann.

I propose to discuss in as much detail as time permits what is planned, where all will occur, access to the sites, and the current state of preparations.