Introduction
Hadrian’s Wall is an ancient Roman fortification in northern England. It was built in 122 A.D. by order of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, to separate the Roman Empire from the “barbarians” of the north. Today, Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. Here are 10 facts about Hadrian’s Wall that you may not have known.
1. It Was Built In A Single Year
Hadrian’s Wall was built in just one year, from 122 A.D. to 123 A.D. This was an incredibly short amount of time for a project of this magnitude, and is a testament to the engineering and organizational skills of the Roman Empire.
2. It Was Built By 20,000 Soldiers
It took the labor of 20,000 soldiers to build Hadrian’s Wall. This was made up of three legions, which were Roman military units comprised of up to 5,000 soldiers each.
3. It Is 80 Roman Miles Long
Hadrian’s Wall is 80 Roman miles long, or 117 kilometers. It stretches from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, and is one of the longest solid structures built by the Roman Empire.
4. It Was Built In Sections
Hadrian’s Wall was built in sections using local materials like stone and timber. Each section was built by a different legion, and the sections were connected by a road and a ditch.
5. It Was Used For Defense
Hadrian’s Wall was used to defend the Roman Empire against the “barbarians” of the north. It was also used to control and tax trade, as well as to monitor the movements of people and goods.
6. It Has A Number Of Gates
There are a number of gates, or “milecastles”, along Hadrian’s Wall. These gates were used to control the movement of people and goods, and to collect taxes.
7. It Was Abandoned In The 5th Century
Hadrian’s Wall was abandoned in the 5th century A.D., when the Roman Empire withdrew from Britain. After that, the wall fell into disrepair and was gradually forgotten.
8. It Is A Popular Tourist Attraction
Today, Hadrian’s Wall is a popular tourist attraction in the United Kingdom. It receives over 2 million visitors every year, and has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
9. It Has Inspired Art And Literature
Hadrian’s Wall has long been an inspiration for art and literature. It has been featured in books, films, and television shows, and is a popular subject for painters and photographers.
10. It Is Still Visible Today
Hadrian’s Wall is still visible today, although much of it is in ruins. You can still see sections of the wall in the English countryside, and it is a popular destination for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Hadrian’s Wall is one of the most impressive and well-known Roman structures in the world. It was built in just one year by 20,000 soldiers, and is still visible today. It has been the inspiration for art and literature, and it is a popular tourist attraction. Hadrian’s Wall is a reminder of the strength and engineering prowess of the ancient Roman Empire.