Fortresses and Treasures of Roman Wales

"Fortresses and Treasures of Roman Wales" details all the fortresses built in Roman Wales during the first century, including all the excavations that have brought these once powerful structures back to life, giving us a wealth of information as to how they functioned and how the soldiers lived. Their foundations have shown us how large they were and where they were placed. We even know what colour some of their internal walls were. And through the discovery of various pottery, we know what utensils the soldiers used for cooking, eating and drinking. We also know how the soldiers spent their leisure hours and what games they played. The soldiers were provided with luxurious bathing facilities even in remote areas, and the remains of these once splendid buildings can still be seen at Caerleon, and Wroxeter (now Shropshire). Two of the great amphitheatres where the soldiers were entertained and held ceremonial parades are also included and can be seen at Caerleon and Chester.

The book also tells how little communities sprung up outside the fortresses' walls, with the soldiers trading with the local people and, in some cases, marrying and deciding to retire in the locality. Many of these communities like Neath and Carmarthan in South Wales, and Whitchurch, Wroxeter and Chester, now in England, have evolved into the thriving centres they are today. After the brutality of the Conquest, the Romans enabled areas to govern themselves and from this, the people began to adopt the Roman way of life and learned to read and write. Many of the Roman artefacts found at the excavations and the countless coin hoards have become treasures in their own right and are now displayed in museums across the country. They, and the fortresses which once dominated our landscape are part of our heritage, and now found, often by chance, should not be forgotten. "Fortresses and Treasures of Roman Wales" will ensure that this is not the case. This title offers a fascinating delve into Roman Wales providing a unique glimpse back into time. It features photographs and illustrations from excavations.

About the Author

SARAH SYMONS was born in Ystradgynlais in the Swansea Valley, but grew up in Shrewsbury where she embarked on a secretarial career. After her family moved South she had a varied career in London, working with the BBC, an American Oil Company and GEC. She returned to Ystradgynlais for her retirement and took a keen interest in the Roman era. She now lives in Swansea.