Ancient Israel from a Roman perspective | Sunday, April 19 and Sunday, October 18, 2026

The Oer-IJ region once played a key role on the northern border of the Roman Empire.

Where nature, water and tranquility meet today, there were waterways, fortresses and settlements two thousand years ago.

On the excursion "In the Footsteps of the Romans" you will experience this landscape from a completely new perspective. Not a dry history lesson, but a walk where history and environment blend seamlessly together.

This is one of those trips where you think to yourself beforehand: interesting.

And afterwards you realize: I will never look at it the same way again.

Why this trip is special

The Oer-IJ region played a crucial role in Roman times. Forts, waterways, and settlements shaped the landscape. On this excursion, you will learn how the Romans used this area and why it was of such great strategic importance.

The tour begins with a short presentation about the vanished Oer-IJ river and the Roman presence in this region. Afterwards, you will set off on a guided hike. Along the way, you will learn interesting facts about changes in elevation, watercourses, and the locations of former buildings – details you might otherwise miss.

No prior knowledge is required. Curiosity is all that's needed.

Who would enjoy this activity?

This tour is suitable for anyone who:

• enjoys spending time outdoors and takes a walk with contentment

• is interested in history and landscape

• I want to see the surroundings with different eyes.

The pace is leisurely and there are plenty of opportunities to ask questions along the way.

Practical

• Excursion: In the footsteps of the Romans

• Dates: Sunday, April 19, 2026 and Sunday, October 18, 2026

• Start time: 10:00 AM

• Location: Starts at ActionPlanet, Spaarnwoude Park (Velsen-Zuid)

• Duration: approx. 2.5 hours (presentation and tour)

• Cost: approx. €8.50 per person, including drinks

• Registration: via email to info@oerij.eu stating the name of the excursion

• The complete and up-to-date program can be found at: https://www.oerij.eu/bewoners-en-bezoekers/ontdek-het-gebied/op-pad-met-een-gids/in-de-voetsporen-van-de-romeinen/

Five surprising facts about the Romans in this region

1. This area lay literally on the edge of the Roman Empire. The Oer-IJ formed the northern border of Roman influence. Here, their world as they knew it ended.

2. Water was more important than roads. The Romans used the ancient IJ river as a waterway. Travel by water was faster and more reliable than by land.

3. Roman forts were more than just defensive structures. They also served as logistical centers for trade, storage, and supply.

4. Many traces are still preserved in the ground. What you can't see today is often still archaeologically present. The landscape holds more history than you might think.

5. Today's landscape still follows a Roman logic. Hills, waterways, and open spaces are not accidental, but the result of decisions made centuries ago.

This event is part of the Uitgeest events calendar. You can find the full events calendar at https://www.boutiquestay.nl/uitagenda