Cumberland Council and Wardell Armstrong LLP (part of SLR) are proud to announce the release of Life and Death in Roman Carlisle: Excavations at 107-117 Botchergate, 2015, a groundbreaking publication that brings to life the fascinating Roman-era heritage of Carlisle.
The book is about the excavations which took place during the construction of Cumbria House on Botchergate beginning in 2015. This exciting council-supported archaeological project uncovers the stories of those who lived, worked, and were laid to rest in the city nearly 2,000 years ago.
Led by Wardell Armstrong’s David Jackson and Dr Matthew Hobson, the archaeological project has revealed a wealth of history, including a 2nd-century roadside cremation cemetery and buildings situated on Carlisle’s urban fringe during the Roman Empire.
Among the most striking discoveries are richly furnished graves that suggest the individuals buried there hailed from northern France and southern Belgium. These findings highlight Carlisle’s role as a multicultural hub, with strong ties to the auxiliary troops stationed at its two Roman forts that would have been an important administrative centre for the army stationed on Hadrian's Wall.
Dr.Hobson said:
“The burial rites and grave goods we uncovered closely mirror those found in Gaulish and Belgic cemeteries, suggesting the deceased were auxiliary soldiers or their families, who followed the army to Britain. This speaks to the far-reaching connections of Roman Carlisle and its diverse population.”
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, added:
“We are proud to have supported this, and now anyone can read for free online about the rich history of cultures that shaped Carlisle's past and are currently under our feet at Cumbria House and Botchergate. This is another piece of stunning archaeology from Carlisle, further solidifying Carlisle as a key Roman destination. The discoveries have shown how the significant Carlisle as a vibrant Roman frontier settlement, and they will provide a new resource for our schools, universities, and researchers around the world to explore ancient history and archaeology from Carlisle.”
The book is available online through Archaeopress as an open-access e-book, and offers readers a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers and settlers who once called Luguvalium (Carlisle) home.
https://www.archaeopress.com/Archaeopress/Products/9781803278438