Vindolanda

Vindolanda was a Roman settlement built to support the legions who were guarding and maintaining Hadrians's wall. Today it is a working archaeological excavation on a massive scale.

The site is of major archaeological importance. No only are there many acres of remains to excavate - enough to keep archaeologist busy for decades - but the finds that they have already uncovered give a real insight into the lives of people who lived in the area nearly 2,000 years ago.

Fragments of what may best be described as postcards have been discovered. These are messages written on thin pieces of wood. They tell of birthday invitations, shopping requirements and shortages of beer! A real picture of normal everyday life not much different from our own today.

Perhaps the most surprising thing about the place is that it is not well known to tourists. In another country I am sure that it would be a major tourist attraction. While it's a sign that Britain is very poor at selling herself as an attraction perhaps we should be grateful that it's still possible to walk round the site and visit the museum in comparative peace.

For more information visit the officialVindolanda Website.

 

Main Index