Colchester: Unveiling Roman Britain's Secrets Through Archaeological Discoveries

Edited by: Tetiana Martynovska 17

Recent archaeological investigations in Colchester, England, have shed light on the city's rich Roman past. The city, also known as Camulodunum (pronounced: Kam-yoo-lo-doo-num), was a significant settlement in Roman Britain.

The Colchester Excavation Committee, established in 1964, laid the groundwork for detailed archaeological reporting. The Colchester Archaeological Trust continues this work today.

Early discoveries included a Roman church dating to c. AD 320-340, the earliest known Christian structure in Britain. The city also revealed evidence of a chariot-racing circus, the only one known in Britain.

The 'Fenwick Treasure,' a cache of jewelry from the Boudiccan revolt in the mid-1st century AD, was also discovered. The treasure included gold armlets, a silver chain necklace, and other valuable items.

These findings highlight Colchester's importance as a cosmopolitan and wealthy town during the Roman era. The discoveries offer insights into the lives, deaths, and connections of the people who lived there.

Sources

  • Current Archaeology

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