Ancient BuildingSouth Shields

Roman Fort Arbeia

Roman Fort Arbeia

The remains of the roman Castle can be visited



Arbeia Roman Fort, a significant ancient structure, is located in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, England, in the United Kingdom. It once formed the easternmost link in the chain of fortifications along Hadrian's Wall and played a crucial role in overseeing an important port, later serving as a supply depot for the frontier troops in the north of the island.

History+

The earliest Roman traces on the site date back to 125 AD and likely belonged to a civilian settlement. The stone fort was completed around 129 AD under Emperor Hadrian and originally served as a cavalry fort. From the 3rd to the 5th century, it transformed into a central supply depot for the garrisons of Hadrian's Wall. In 208 AD, the cavalry ala was transferred to Septimius Severus' Scottish campaigns and replaced by an infantry cohort, leading to extensive structural changes. The fort burned down at the turn of the 3rd to 4th century and was only reactivated as a supply base towards the end of the 4th century. Around 400 AD, it was finally abandoned by the army but continued to be inhabited by civilians until the late 7th century.

Location+

Arbeia Roman Fort is situated in South Shields, in the district of Tyne and Wear, England, United Kingdom, at an elevation of approximately 23 m above sea level.

On site+

Today, visitors can explore the impressive remains of the Roman fort. Some buildings, including the West Gate, the late antique commander's house, and a barracks block, were restored and rebuilt on their original foundations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Nearby+
  • Roman Fort Segedunum (Milecastle 0) (Ancient Structures), approx. 6.7 km away
  • Newcastle Castle (Castle), approx. 12.2 km away
  • Roman Fort Condercum-Antenociticus Temple (Ancient Structures), approx. 15.1 km away
  • Roman Fort Condercum (Ancient Structures), approx. 15.3 km away

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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: Ozymandias

This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.

Location: 55.0045, -1.4308