30 Years of the Roman City of Carnuntum
2026 is a special year in Carnuntum. The Roman city is turning 30. Founded on June 9, 1996, as the “Carnuntum Archaeological Park,” what was once a loose collection of archaeological landscapes, an excavation museum, a collection depot, and an open-air museum site has evolved into one of the most modern and impressive archaeological experience centers, welcoming over 5 million visitors in the past 30 years. A major part of this success is due to the globally unique, fully reconstructed Roman buildings, which are also celebrating an anniversary this year: the House of Lucius, the oldest fully reconstructed house in Carnuntum, turns 20 this year.
In the run-up to the anniversary, a lot has happened in Carnuntum: a new virtual reality room, new spaces, and impressive ceiling paintings in the thermal baths, as well as special anniversary tours, make a visit to the Roman city particularly inviting this year. To mark the occasion, we have compiled all the highlights of the anniversary year here for you:
The Carnuntum Experience
Our latest virtual reality experience allows visitors to take a virtual flight over Carnuntum during Roman times and discover entirely new perspectives. On this journey through the centuries, the transformation of the ancient metropolis—from Carnuntum’s heyday to its decline—is brought to life through impressive 3D visualizations.
The Roman Baths in New Splendor
Just in time for its 30th anniversary and its own 15th birthday (the thermal baths opened in 2011 as part of the Lower Austrian Provincial Exhibition), the thermal baths in the Roman Quarter are unveiling new spaces and impressive Roman ceiling paintings. All areas are freely accessible to visitors and can be explored at your leisure. If you’d like to learn more about the work, we recommend these articles from our science magazine as well as the corresponding episode of the videocast.
The Grand Anniversary Tour
Our anniversary is not only an occasion for new beginnings, but also an opportunity to look back. During these special tours, we’ll show you how foundation walls were transformed back into fully functional Roman buildings. The tour is enhanced with many historical photos and a behind-the-scenes look. The experience is rounded out with a culinary journey back to Roman times; over spiced wine and Roman-style appetizers, participants can share their personal Carnuntum experiences.