Drususstein

The Drususstein (Drusus stone) is a nearly 20 metres high masonry block of Roman origin on the grounds of the citadel of Mainz, Germany.

Researchers now largely accept that this is the structural remnant of the cenotaph mentioned by writers such as Eutropius and Suetonius,[1] erected in 9 BC by Roman troops in honour of the deceased general Drusus,[2] in Mogontiacum (now Mainz).

During the early days of the Principate the Drususstein was the starting point for elaborate memorial services in honour of Drusus, and the centre of the imperial cult in Mogontiacum.

[3] After being robbed of its marble casing in the early Middle Ages, the Drususstein served as a watchtower in the fortifications of the city in the 16th century.

[4] The Roman general Nero Claudius Drusus, stepson of Augustus, founded the legionary camp of Mogontiacum opposite the mouth of the River Main, no later than 13–12 BC.