Welcome to the City of London, where history meets modern life! Beneath the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers, you’ll find fascinating remnants of a vibrant Roman past. While modern-day London may not be the Roman Empire’s capital, the city’s streets offer a glimpse into the daily lives of its early inhabitants. Imagine walking in the footsteps of Romans, albeit a few metres higher, as you navigate from your Tube station to work or from your hotel to dinner.
Rediscovering Ancient Lives
Stepping into the heart of London, you’ll find yourself standing on the same ground that once buzzed with activity during the Roman era. Londinium, as it was known, was a bustling commercial hub just like the City we know today. Wander through the city’s streets, and you’ll stumble upon captivating remnants of this fascinating past. From the remnants of the city wall to the excavated ruins of bathhouses and amphitheatres, these historical treasures paint a vivid picture of Roman life.
Imagine discovering a hidden world beneath an office block! In 1848, an extraordinary find unearthed the remains of a 2,000-year-old Roman home and bathhouse. Preserved perfectly, these ruins transport you back in time, allowing you to experience a glimpse of daily life in Roman Londinium. You can explore this remarkable discovery on a guided tour.
A Glimpse into Roman Entertainment
The Guildhall Art Gallery, now a peaceful haven for art enthusiasts, once throbbed with the energy of gladiatorial combat and public executions. This Roman amphitheatre, unearthed during the gallery’s construction in 1988, provides a glimpse into a different era. Step into the gallery, and you’ll discover the amphitheatre’s remnants, including the entrance tunnel, east gate, and arena walls, hidden beneath the Gallery.
Walking the Walls of Roman London
As Londinium grew, so did the need for strong defenses. The Romans embarked on a monumental construction project, building a two-mile-long protective wall around the city, which remains a powerful testament to their engineering prowess. The remains of this impressive wall are still visible, showcasing the Roman’s construction techniques using squared stone blocks and triple rows of red tiles.
At Tower Hill, a particularly well-preserved section of the city wall stands as a reminder of Roman Londinium’s strength. And on Vine Street, a subterranean section of the city wall and bastion tower, previously hidden beneath office buildings, is now open to the public. Take a look at the archaeological discoveries displayed here, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
## Exploring Ancient Landmarks
Standing in the heart of London, you can touch history at the London Stone, an ancient landmark believed to mark the city’s core. Legend has it that moving this stone would bring misfortune to London, so it’s carefully protected in a glass-fronted enclosure.
Beneath the European headquarters of Bloomberg, an ancient temple lies hidden. The Temple of Mithras, dating back to the 3rd century AD, was discovered in 1954, revealing a treasure trove of jewelry, pottery, and writing tablets. This immersive experience brings to life the temple’s story, showcasing the unearthed artifacts alongside a reconstructed temple.
Echoes of Roman Life in Churches
All Hallows by the Tower, one of the oldest churches in the City of London, holds secrets from a Roman past. In the Crypt Museum, you can discover fragments of a Roman tessellated floor and plastered walls, remnants of a 2nd-century domestic house.
St Bride’s Church also echoes Roman life, showcasing the remains of a Roman pavement dating back to around AD 180. These captivating glimpses into the city’s Roman past serve as reminders of the enduring legacy of Londinium, a city that has thrived through the ages.
From ancient ruins to hidden treasures, Roman London offers a captivating glimpse into the past. As you navigate the streets of the modern city, take a moment to consider the lives of the Romans who walked those same paths centuries ago. The city’s history whispers through the cobblestone streets, inviting you to delve deeper into its fascinating past.
