![The Germanic peoples were feared by the Romans. The Rhine was able to hold back the raiders from the north. For a while, at least.](https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/app/uploads/grenze-titel-300x225.jpg)
The Emperor’s new frontier
Around 1,600 years ago, the Roman Emperor Valentinian I had the Rhine and Danube borders extended by a substantial amount. He wanted to protect the empire from the onslaught of the peoples of the north.
![Portrait of Valentinian I](https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/app/uploads/valentinian-bueste-276x300.jpg)
![Roman watchtowers along the Rhine.](https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/app/uploads/roemische-grenze-en-300x120.jpg)
Everyday life in the watchtower
![Reconstructed Roman watchtower.](https://blog.nationalmuseum.ch/app/uploads/wachturm-300x225.jpg)