London, a city known for its vibrant energy and centuries-old history, is a treasure trove of fascinating attractions. The city’s history dates back to the Roman era, with a wealth of Roman ruins below its bustling streets. Taking a guided tour is an excellent way to explore these ancient structures. The following sections will introduce you to some of the prime locations where you can experience the magic of London’s Roman history.
The London Wall: A Testament to the Roman Era
The London Wall is a defensive structure first built by the Romans around Londinium, their strategic port town on the River Thames. The wall was constructed in the late 2nd or early 3rd century and remained mostly intact until the 18th century. Although much of the wall was dismantled over the years, several sections are still visible today.
The most significant remains of the wall are located near the Tower of London and another section can be seen in the Barbican Estate. A guided tour will allow you to walk along stretches of this incredible piece of history, giving you an authentic feel of ancient Roman architecture. Several tours start from the Tower Hill Station, taking you along a path that showcases the wall’s history, from the Roman era to medieval times.
The Roman Amphitheatre: A Hidden Gem
Deep beneath the streets of London lies the hidden gem of the city’s Roman history – the Guildhall Yard’s Roman amphitheatre. Built in the first century, it could seat around 6,000 spectators who would gather to watch various public events and entertainments.
This amphitheatre was lost to history for more than a millennium, with its remains discovered only in 1988 during an archaeological excavation. Today, you can see the amphitheatre’s remains in the basement of the Guildhall Art Gallery. The guided tours here tell the tale of its glorious past, taking you back to the days when gladiators walked its grounds.
The London Mithraeum: A Mysterious Roman Temple
The London Mithraeum, also known as the Temple of Mithras, is another fascinating underground Roman ruin in the city. Situated on Walbrook Street, this temple was initially built in the mid 3rd century. After its excavation in the 20th century, it has become a popular tourist attraction.
The temple was dedicated to the god Mithras, who was popular among the military in the Roman Empire. Today, it is part of the Bloomberg SPACE, a cultural hub that combines contemporary art with archaeological treasures. A guided tour of the London Mithraeum not only highlights the temple’s history but also delves into the mysterious cult of Mithras.
Billingsgate Roman House and Baths: Step Back in Time
Located in the heart of the city, the Billingsgate Roman House and Baths, dating back to the 2nd century, is the only Roman baths complex still accessible in London. The building was located near the Roman waterfront, which is now several hundred yards away due to changes in the Thames’ course over centuries.
The house and baths are situated underneath a modern office building in Lower Thames Street. Guided tours are available, offering insight into the daily life of Roman Londoners. The baths are especially well-preserved, with some rooms still displaying original frescoes and mosaics.
Museum of London’s Roman Gallery: A Wealth of Artifacts
For a comprehensive understanding of Roman London, a visit to the Museum of London’s Roman Gallery is a must. This museum houses a wealth of artifacts from the Roman era, including personal items, sculptures, and a model of the Roman city.
While not an underground ruin, the museum offers great insights into Roman life, culture, and architecture. A guided tour of the Roman Gallery will enrich your knowledge and understanding of London’s Roman past.
When in London, make sure to explore these fascinating Roman ruins. They offer a unique perspective on the city’s rich history and are a testament to its Roman past. So next time you walk the city’s busy streets, remember that beneath your feet lie centuries of history waiting to be discovered.
The Temple of Augustus: An Ancient Roman Temple in the Heart of London
Tucked away in the busy city of London, the Temple of Augustus is an excellent representation of Roman architecture. Located on Governor’s Court, just a 10-minute walk from the Tower of London, this temple is one of the surviving Roman buildings in the city. Constructed in the late 1st century AD, it was dedicated to the Roman Emperor Augustus. The temple stands as an enduring symbol of the grandeur and glory of the Roman Empire.
The Temple of Augustus mainly catered to the Roman citizens in London, allowing them a place of worship and gathering. It is estimated that the building could accommodate hundreds of worshippers at a time. Today, a guided walking tour of the temple will take you through the ruins and provide a fascinating insight into the Roman influence on London’s history and architecture.
Moreover, the tour will also cover the surrounding area, detailing the Roman influence on the city’s urban planning and infrastructure. For instance, the city wall of London, an iconic symbol of the Roman era and a structure that significantly shaped the development of London, is located close to the temple. The remains of the Roman wall are still visible, serving as a reminder of the city’s Roman past.
The Roman Bath: A Peek into the Daily Life of Ancient Romans
Situated in Strand Lane, just a short walk from the world-renowned London Bridge, the Roman Bath is one of the city’s lesser-known yet equally enthralling Roman sites. Built around the 2nd century AD, the bath was a significant part of the daily routine for Romans living in London, offering a place for them to relax, socialize, and maintain personal hygiene.
The bathhouse is nestled beneath a 19th-century building, preserving its original architecture. It is an excellent example of Roman design and craftsmanship, with its unique tiled flooring and mural-covered walls. During a guided tour of the Roman Bath, visitors will learn about the bath’s history and its role in Roman London.
Interestingly, Harry Potter fans might recognize this ancient site as it served as the inspiration for the ‘Prefects’ Bathroom’ in the Harry Potter series. As part of the tour, visitors will also get to see the Guildhall Art Gallery nearby, which houses a collection of Roman artifacts discovered during various excavations in the city.
Exploring London’s Roman ruins is akin to stepping back in time. Each site, from the city wall to the hidden bathhouses and temples, tells a captivating story about the city’s Roman history. The guided tours provide a unique opportunity to delve into the past and gain an in-depth understanding of how the Romans have shaped London’s architectural style and urban structure.
Whether you are a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, these tours are an excellent way to see London from a different perspective. So, the next time you’re in London, be sure to embark on this historical journey. You might be walking down a busy street, but remember, below the surface lies a centuries-old history just waiting to be discovered. After all, the city beneath London is just as fascinating as the city above.
