Site of the Roman fort in High Rochester, Northumberland, England. Credit: Mike Bishop / Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0
Archaeologists in England, have uncovered a remarkable collection of Roman artifacts in Northumberland at the ancient fort of Bremenium, offering new insight into life on the empire’s farthest frontier.
Built around AD 80, the fort guarded a key section of Dere Street — a major Roman road linking York to Corbridge and extending north of Hadrian’s Wall.
Precision-built stronghold of the Roman Empire
Bremenium followed the standard Roman “playing-card” design used across the empire. It was protected by a deep ditch and stone walls reinforced with earth, enclosing more than five acres (about 20,000 square meters). The site’s design reflects the precision of Roman military engineering and marks Bremenium as a vital stronghold on the empire’s northern frontier.
Fort’s military legacy spanned centuries
Over the centuries, the fort housed several prominent auxiliary units. In the 2nd century, the garrison included the First Cohort of Lingones and the First Cohort of Dalmatians. By the 3rd century, the First Cohort of Vardulians had taken their place, maintaining the Roman defense line deep into northern Britain.
Excavations uncover record number of artifacts
Recent excavations by the Redesdale Archaeological Group (RAG), with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, have revealed an unprecedented number of artifacts and structural remains inside the fort. The discoveries provide a vivid glimpse into the daily routines, trade, and craftsmanship of soldiers stationed on the edge of the empire.
Among the finds were military items such as a spearhead and a lead sling shot, underscoring the fort’s defensive role. Excavators also uncovered a wide range of domestic artifacts, including fragments of Samian Ware, Black Burnished Ware, and Grey Ware pottery.
Pieces of an amphora imported from northern Spain were also found, believed to have once held olive oil — evidence of Rome’s far-reaching trade connections.
Personal items reveal everyday Roman life
Archaeologists also discovered personal and decorative items that reveal the more human side of fort life. These included a small votive oil lamp, a lead seal used for official documents, intact dolphin-style brooches, and two engraved gemstones. The finds suggest a community that combined military discipline with traces of personal devotion and craftsmanship.
Community engagement and heritage preservation
Chris Jones, Historic Environment Officer at Northumberland National Park Authority, said the ongoing excavations at High Rochester — the site of Bremenium — continue to uncover “the secrets” of the ancient fort. He noted that the project has engaged people of all ages, helping local communities connect with their shared heritage.
Jones added that community-led projects like this one help deepen understanding of important archaeological sites in the National Park. The work, he said, not only expands knowledge of Roman Britain but also helps guide farmers and land managers in preserving the landscape’s cultural legacy.
