Arbeia Roman Fort is in South Shields, UK. The site is now a museum. It is here that the Roman heddle was found in the late 19th century.
The Romans occupied the site from 125 CE. It became a supply base for the Roman frontier and many granaries were built.
The barrack housed the centurion and his family at one end. The soldiers in groups of eight shared two rooms - very cramped indeed.
Various buildings in the site have been reconstructed: the gatehouse, barrack blocks and the commanders house.
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Reconstructed gate |
The barrack blocks were very cramped for the ordinary soldier.
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The barrack block |
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Centurions kitchen. The large courtyard house was probably the residence of the commanding officer and were very luxurious. |
It was a fascinating day out as we had not visited the fort for many years.
The South Shields heddle is now in the Great North Museum in Newcastle.
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reproduction heddle with the actual Roman find. |
happy weaving
Susan J Foulkes may 2025