Calleva Atrebatum was a significant settlement in Roman Britain, located in modern-day Silchester, Hampshire. It was the capital of the Atrebates, a Celtic tribe that lived in the area before Roman conquest. The city developed into an important Roman town after the conquest in AD 43 under Emperor Claudius.
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Early History and Pre-Roman Period
Before Roman occupation, Calleva Atrebatum was a thriving settlement of the Atrebates, a tribe who had established themselves in the area. The tribe’s leaders, such as Tincomarus, ruled over the region before the Roman invasion. Archaeological evidence suggests that the settlement was likely a central hub for trade and governance.
Roman Conquest and Development
Following the Roman invasion of Britain in AD 43, Calleva Atrebatum became a Roman town. The Romans built roads, temples, and public buildings, transforming the site. It is believed that the town was granted the status of a Roman civitas, allowing it to self-govern under Roman rule. This status helped the settlement prosper and grow.
Layout and Structure
The Roman town was built following the typical Roman grid plan. Streets were aligned in a regular pattern, intersecting at right angles. Archaeologists have uncovered remains of a forum, basilica, and several temples, indicating the town’s importance as a center of administration and religious activity.
The walls surrounding Calleva Atrebatum were originally constructed during the Roman period, and parts of them remain today. The town was well-fortified, reflecting its strategic importance. Gates were established at several points around the settlement, facilitating trade and defense.
Economy and Trade
Calleva Atrebatum became an important center for trade. Its location along major Roman roads allowed goods to be transported easily. Excavations have revealed a variety of artifacts, including pottery, coins, and tools, suggesting a vibrant economic environment. The town was known for its agricultural production, which supported both local and regional markets.
Decline and Abandonment
The decline of Calleva Atrebatum began in the late 4th century AD. By the early 5th century AD, the Roman Empire was weakening, and Britain faced increased threats from invasions. Archaeological evidence points to the gradual abandonment of the settlement. The reasons for its decline are not fully understood, but they likely include a combination of external invasions and internal instability.
Archaeological Discoveries
Extensive archaeological excavations have revealed much about life in Calleva Atrebatum. Among the most important finds are inscriptions, coins, and a well-preserved Roman theater. The theater, capable of holding around 3,000 people, is one of the most significant structures discovered in the area.
Other discoveries include Roman bathhouses, residential buildings, and a complex network of roads. These findings provide insights into the daily life of its inhabitants and the town’s role in Roman Britain.
Conclusion
Calleva Atrebatum was a key settlement in Roman Britain, reflecting the integration of Roman administrative and cultural practices into the local society. Its strategic location, thriving economy, and impressive archaeological remains make it an important site for understanding Roman Britain. While the town eventually declined and was abandoned, its legacy remains visible in the ruins that continue to be studied today.
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