Facts About Roman London

Facts About Roman London

❇️Roman London, known as Londinium, was founded by the Romans around AD 43 as a strategic settlement on the River Thames.

❇️Londinium quickly grew and became an important trading and administrative centre for the Roman Empire. It served as a hub for commerce, connecting Britain with the rest of the Roman world.

❇️The city was laid out in a grid pattern, with major roads such as Watling Street and Ermine Street converging at Londinium. These roads facilitated trade and communication throughout the province of Britannia.

❇️The Romans built various structures and amenities in Londinium, including a forum, bathhouses, temples, an amphitheatre, and a basilica. These buildings served as centres of administration, worship, and entertainment.

❇️The London Wall was constructed around AD 200 to fortify the city and protect it from potential invasions. Parts of the wall can still be seen in modern-day London, such as at the Tower of London and in the Barbican area.

❇️The Roman occupation of Londinium lasted for approximately 400 years, during which the city flourished as a cultural and commercial hub. It attracted people from different parts of the Roman Empire, contributing to its diverse population.

❇️In AD 410, the Roman Empire began to decline, weakening Roman authority in Britain. As a result, Londinium faced challenges, including attacks by barbarian tribes. The city's decline continued after the Romans officially left Britain in the early 5th century.

❇️The remains of Roman London were gradually buried and forgotten as new structures were built over the centuries. The rediscovery of Roman artefacts and structures began in the 19th century during construction work and archaeological excavations.

❇️ Today, various Roman artefacts are on display in the Museum of London, including pottery, jewellery, and Roman-era structures. The museum provides insights into the daily life, culture, and history of Roman London.

❇️Roman London played a significant role in shaping the city's future. The original Roman settlement served as the foundation for the development and growth of London over the centuries, becoming the vibrant and cosmopolitan city it is Today.