The porticoed entrance to the National Roman Legion Museum

Step Back in Time and Visit Roman Britain at the National Roman Legion Museum

Experience the rich history of Roman Britain at the National Roman Legion Museum in Wales, where ancient stories come to life.

Author:
Numismatic News Staff
Publish date:
Jun 28, 2024

Chris Harris: livinglevels.org.uk

Experience the rich history of Roman Britain at the National Roman Legion Museum in Wales, where ancient stories come to life.

The National Roman Legion Museum, located in Caerleon, Wales, is a treasure trove of Roman history and culture. It offers a glimpse into life during the Roman occupation of Britain, focusing on the Roman legions stationed there. The museum entryway features an array of artifacts, including weapons, armor, and daily household items that illustrate the lives of the Roman soldiers. The museum's detailed exhibits provide a fascinating look at their military prowess and daily routines.

The Caerleon Roman amphitheater ruins are a short distance from the museum.
livinglevels.org.uk

The museum itself is located in the center of an ancient Roman fortress. The road on which it sits leads to the most complete Roman amphitheater in Britain. The fortress at Caerleon, which the Romans called “Isca Augusta,” was one of just three permanent legion bases in Britain—home to the Second Augustan Legion for more than 200 years. From the museum, it is a short walk (0.1 miles) to the ruins of the amphitheater, a Roman military bath house, a section of fortress walls, and the remains of the legion barracks—the only ones open to the public anywhere in Europe.

Silver Roman denarius of Mark Anthony at the National Roman Legion Museum.
WikiCommons

The museum boasts an impressive coin collection illustrating the economic and political history of Roman Britain. This extensive collection features coins from various periods of Roman rule, each accompanied by detailed information about their origins and significance. Visitors can see coins minted by different emperors, demonstrating the evolution of Roman currency and the shifting power dynamics within the empire. The coins, often embellished with intricate designs and portraits of emperors, provide a tangible connection to the past and offer insight into the trade networks and economic systems that supported Roman society. This collection offers a unique glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of ancient minting techniques.

A visitor tries on Roman armor at the National Roman Legion Museum.
visitwales.com

Another of the museum’s highlights is its extensive collection of Roman military equipment. Visitors can view the intricate designs of the helmets, shields, and swords used by Roman soldiers alongside informative plaques explaining their use and significance in Roman military strategy. Additionally, the museum offers interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what it was like to wear Roman armor and handle the weapons, providing a hands-on experience of the challenges faced by Roman soldiers.

Reconstruction of Roman barracks
National Roman Legion Museum

The museum also features a well-preserved section of a Roman barrack, giving visitors a sense of how Roman soldiers lived. The reconstruction includes details such as the sleeping quarters and the communal areas where soldiers would eat and socialize. This immersive experience is further enhanced by the museum's use of sound effects and visual displays, bringing the history of the Roman Legion to life.

Mosaic floor, amphoras, and other everyday household items.
WikiCommons

Beyond the military aspects, the National Roman Legion Museum delves into the civilian side of Roman life in Caerleon. Exhibits on Roman baths, pottery, and everyday tools offer a broader picture of the Roman influence on local culture and daily life. The museum's collection of beautifully crafted mosaics and sculptures demonstrates the artistic achievements of the Romans, while the sections on Roman cuisine and fashion provide insights into the personal lives of both soldiers and civilians, highlighting the multifaceted nature of Roman society.

If you'd like to explore the National Roman Legion Museum with us, we are heading there as part of our NumisTravel Tour of London and Wales from September 25 through October 2, 2024. Learn more about the tour and register here.