Hadrian's Wall

What I learned when visiting Hadrian's Wall

        Hadrian’s Wall is located in the north of England, not far from the border with Scotland. It stretches for about 73 miles, from Bowness on the west coast, to Wallsend on the east coast.

·  The 73 mile length was equivalent to 80 Roman miles. The Roman mile was based on the distance that a legion, or group, of soldiers could march in 2,000 steps.

·  The wall and most of its defenses were built between about 122 and 128 AD.  Its purpose was to mark the northern extent of the Roman Empire, which then covered much of Europe.

·  Hadrian’s Wall was originally constructed in two parts, with the western part of the wall built first. It was originally made from turf, allowing it to be built more quickly.

·  The Romans also built 16 forts along the length of the wall, the remains of which can be seen today. Each one could house 800 soldiers and had its own prison, hospital, bakery and stables.

·  The emperor, Hadrian, after whom the wall is named, wanted to make sure the soldiers stationed on Hadrian’s Wall were happy. He personally met with the troops and encouraged practice drills.

·  Although much of the wall is still standing, over the centuries people have taken away the stones for building. Several nearby monasteries contain stones taken from Hadrian’s Wall.