Archaeological breakthrough thanks to incredible new images detailing a major settlement in Roman Britain | United Kingdom | News
Archaeologists have revealed remarkable new information about the Roman history of an East Yorkshire town. The excavation at Brough has revealed evidence suggesting that the area’s fortifications were strengthened in the late 3rd century, at a time when Britain was ruled by ‘rebel’ emperors.
An artist’s impression today illustrates the impressive scale of the Roman fort known as Petuaria, which once protected a major Roman settlement.
The Petuaria ReVisited project, which is leading the excavation, will be hosting an open event on Sunday from 10am to 4pm BST, where visitors can tour the site, view the finds and take part in family activities.
Martin Credland, Petuaria ReVisited project manager, described the open day as a great opportunity to see the latest discoveries.
“On our tours, anyone can come and we’ll show them around the site,” Credland said. “We’ll explain what we’ve discovered this year and in previous years, and how it all fits together to tell the story of Petuaria.”
The site of Brough is believed to have been the tribal capital of the Parisi, who lived in East Yorkshire in Roman times. Although the Roman walls have been known since the 1930s, recent excavations have led to important new discoveries.
In 2023, an outer tower, or bastion, resembling structures at Roman forts in London and the Saxon coast, was discovered.
In the late 3rd century, a commander named Carausius attempted to secede from Rome by proclaiming himself Emperor of Britain. He was assassinated in 293 by his ally Allectus, who reigned three more years.
Credland’s interest in the project grew out of his desire to shift Brough’s focus from aerospace to archaeology. More than 100 volunteers, many new to the field, are taking part in the dig, investigating Roman defences at Burrs’ playground and a Roman road in a neighbouring garden.
Credland praised the diversity of volunteers, noting that they “learn new skills, meet new people and develop a new interest” while enjoying outdoor activities.
A permanent noticeboard on the playing field now provides information about these discoveries, funded by a government Shared Prosperity grant.
Geophysical surveys and excavations have revealed numerous buildings beneath the field. In addition, a grant from the Hull Maritime Project has facilitated surveys in the gardens along Cave Road, revealing Roman structures possibly linked to a small harbour at the tidal entrance.
The Petuaria ReVisited project is run by the Elloughton Brough Playing Field Association in collaboration with the East Riding Archaeological Society.
