Vindolanda is a major Roman archaeological site in Northumberland. The Vindolanda Charitable Trust manages and owns the site which is at close distance to Hadrian’s Wall.
The Vindolanda Fort
There are nine forts stacked on top of each other. Belgian, German, and French soldiers were garrisoned here. The outstanding remains include the fort walls, the headquarters structure, the Commanding Officer’s home, granaries and barracks. Just west of the fort are the ruins of an extramural village with the main street. A bar, homes, stores, and a bathhouse.
Every year, hundreds of volunteers from all around the world come to help excavate. The site is anaerobic, preserving the artefacts in exceptional condition.
Beautiful artefacts discovered during excavations are on exhibit in a museum down the hill to the east of the fort. In addition, there are magnificent and unique collections of wooden artefacts and religious artefacts.
The Vindolanda writing tablets were awarded Britain’s ‘Top Treasure’ and are on display in the museum. There were letters from soldiers requesting socks and underwear, birthday invitations to the Commanding Officer’s wife, payment demands, inventories of commodities given, and military deployments.
The spectacular Roman ruins, preserved artefacts, and exciting live excavations at Vindolanda allow visitors to connect with the genuine people who once lived here.
Enjoy even more attractions along Hadrian’s Wall on your trip to Northumberland…