Archaeologists Discover Unique Roman Wooden Water Pipe in Leuven, Belgium

Archaeologists uncovered a remarkably well-preserved Roman-era wooden water pipe beneath a street in Leuven, Belgium, dating from between the first and third centuries C.E. The pipe, made from hollowed-out tree trunks, stretches approximately 65 to 100 feet and was found about 13 feet underground in marshy soil near the Dyle River, which helped preserve the organic material. This discovery is unique in Flanders and suggests that Leuven was a significant Roman settlement, possibly a 'diverticulum' along a military road, with sophisticated water infrastructure including a possible pumping system. The find sheds new light on Roman engineering and urban planning in the region, demonstrating their advanced hydro-logistics beyond the typical stone aqueducts and cisterns. Archaeologists plan further analysis to better understand the pipe's construction and the extent of Roman presence in Leuven. The discovery adds to growing evidence of Roman influence in Belgium, complementing other recent archaeological finds.