corbridge roman site

a flourishing settlement on Hadrian's Wall

Thriving communities developed along Hadrian's Wall, with settlements and forts established to support both the soldiers and the wider population living in the area. Corbridge was among these prosperous towns, remaining lively and active until the decline of Roman Britain in the early 5th century.

The Corbridge Hoard stands out as one of the most important discoveries in Roman history. This nearly 2,000 year old time capsule contains exceptionally preserved artefacts, such as armour, tools, weaponry, wax writing tablets and papyrus. Dating from AD122 to AD138, the hoard was found in remarkable condition thanks to its burial in an iron-bound, leather-covered wooden chest.

The museum at Corbridge Roman Site houses an impressive collection of 34,000 finds, including hairpins, pottery, combs, metalwork, stonework, armour, glassware, tombstones with varied inscriptions, and even a gaming board. Among the highlights is the celebrated Corbridge Lion, discovered at the site in 1907, depicting a lion attacking its prey, which may represent a goat, stag, or cow.

Corbridge Roman Town offers visitors the opportunity to discover how people lived, worked, and worshipped near Hadrian’s Wall. Founded before the construction of the Wall itself, Corbridge became the most northerly town in the Roman Empire, supplying goods and services to the garrisons stationed along the Wall. Visitors can still walk on the original Roman main street, bordered by the remnants of ancient town buildings.

The museum at Corbridge features an internationally significant collection of artefacts that vividly illustrate the lives of its inhabitants. Weapons, jewellery, personal belongings, grave goods, and depictions of the town's deities all help to paint a picture of daily life in Roman Britain. Be sure not to miss the fascinating Corbridge Hoard, a Roman time capsule buried during the 2nd century AD. It includes remarkably well-preserved items from a Roman workshop, such as armour and the personal possessions of a Roman soldier.