Introduction
The River Tees, which flows through northern England, is home to some of the most fascinating archaeological discoveries from the Roman era. In recent years, local divers have uncovered more than 2,000 high-quality Roman finds in this stretch of the river. This area is particularly interesting because it passes by one of the most impressive Roman forts in northern Britain. Over the course of three days, archaeologists cast their net far and wide, investigating the buildings, roads, and structures around this strategic crossing.
The History of River Tees and the Romans: An Overview
The River Tees has been an important transportation route since prehistoric times. The Romans recognized its strategic importance and built a series of forts along its banks to protect the northern frontier of their empire. The Roman fort at Piercebridge, located on the north bank of the River Tees, was built in the 1st century AD and was one of the largest forts in the region. It served as a base for the Roman army until the end of the 4th century AD.
The River Tees has played an important role in the history of northern England. It was a significant transportation route for goods and people, and it was also strategically important for military purposes. The Romans recognized the importance of the River Tees and established several forts and settlements along its banks.
The Roman Empire first invaded Britain in AD 43, and by AD 70, they had established a major military presence in the north of England. They built forts and roads, and the River Tees was an important transportation route for supplies and soldiers. One of the most significant Roman forts in northern Britain was located at Piercebridge, just a few miles upstream from where the recent discoveries were made.
The Romans remained in control of Britain for almost 400 years, and during this time, they left a lasting impact on the landscape and culture of the country. The River Tees was just one of many areas where their influence can still be seen today. The recent discoveries made by local divers are a testament to the enduring legacy of the Romans in this part of the world.
The Roman Finds in the River Tees
Local divers have made a series of amazing discoveries in the River Tees over the past few years. They have found everything from pottery to coins to jewelry, all dating back to the Roman era. The artifacts are of high quality and offer a glimpse into the lives of the Romans who lived and worked in this area more than 1,500 years ago.
Some of the most significant finds include a Roman cavalry helmet, which is believed to date back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD. This helmet is unique in that it was found intact, with its cheek pieces and neck guard still in place. Other important discoveries include a number of Roman coins, pottery fragments, and a silver ring with a unique design.
Exploring the Roman Fort at Piercebridge
One of the most impressive Roman forts in northern Britain, Piercebridge Fort, is located on the north bank of the River Tees. The fort was built in the 1st century AD and was used by the Roman army until the end of the 4th century AD. The fort is situated on a strategic crossing point on the River Tees, which made it an important base for the Roman army.
The fort was constructed using stone and timber, and consisted of a series of buildings and defensive walls. The remains of the fort can still be seen today, including the remains of a bathhouse and a granary. Visitors can also see the remains of the fort’s defensive walls and the gateway, which is believed to have been the main entrance to the fort.
The Impact of Roman Finds on the Local Community
The discovery of these Roman artifacts has had a significant impact on the local community. It has helped to raise awareness of the area’s rich history and has attracted tourists from all over the world. The artifacts are also an important educational resource and have been used to teach local school children about the Roman era.
In addition, the discovery of these artifacts has helped to shed new light on the lives of the Romans who lived and worked in this area. It has helped historians and archaeologists to better understand the Roman occupation of northern Britain and the daily lives of the soldiers and civilians who lived here.
Conclusion
The River Tees and the surrounding area are rich in Roman history and offer a fascinating glimpse into life in northern Britain more than 1,500 years ago. The recent discoveries made by local divers and archaeologists have helped to shed new light on this important period in history and have made a significant contribution to our understanding of the Roman occupation of northern Britain.
