Welcome to Argentum:
the Celtic Kingdom of Noricum – the Roman Empire­

Lage der Provinz Noricum im Römischen Reich

‘Eternal children’ and ‘sons of the gods’

The Romans believed that they were the descendants of ancient heroes and gods. Starting in Rome, they perfected their administrative and economic systems, built a network of roads and developed the art and science of war, all of which enabled them to create a vast empire. New territories were either conquered in war or occupied, apparently without a fight, by the Roman army. The area belonging to the Celtic federation of tribes known as the ‘Regnum Noricum’ that covered large swathes of modern-day Austria – including Carinthia – became part of the Roman Empire in 50 AD.

“Eternal children” is what the Celts were according to a Roman chronicler. But also valiant, fierce and furious in battle. Originally from Gaul, in modern-day France, the Celts and their culture spread across parts of Europe from around the 8th century BC. They also settled down here in Mühldorf. The Roman general Julius Caesar waged war against the Celts in Gaul on several occasions before they submitted to his rule. But how did the story of the Celts and Romans develop here in Mühldorf? Did battles and conflicts also leave their mark on their common history? The three thematic trails in and around the village have many a tale to tell.

If you want to find out more about this, you can also watch the film (in German).

Children text

“Do you know me? I live here, in Argentum, the Celtic village just over the bridge on the other side of the River Möll. My name is Matugenta. That’s Celtic for “daughter of the bear”. My father Atestas is the chieftain in Argentum. We’re all Celts. Hmm, all of us? Well, actually, no, there are a few Romans living here too now. My grandfather Atto really likes them. But my father can’t stop grumbling about those newcomers. In fact, he’s just got back from the town of Teurnia, where he and other Celtic chieftains were discussing what it’s like to live with the Romans. Come with me to the Roman road leading from Teurnia. My father Atestas is sure to turn up soon and tell us all about the meeting. Or you can get to know more about our wonderful life in a Celtic tribe on the Celtic trail.”

Question:

What does the Celtic name “Matugenta” mean? Do you know the answer?

Round Trail