BattlefieldsAttack on Vindolanda
Roman Period

Attack on Vindolanda

180–197
Northumberland, England
Also known as: Chesterholm Fort Attack · Vindolanda Destruction Levels
Era
Roman Period
Battle Type
Siege
Location
Northumberland, England
Status
Unregistered
The Combatants

Who Fought

Defeated
Rome (Vindolanda garrison)
Forces
Vindolanda garrison c. 300–500.
VS
Victor
Northern tribes
Forces
Northern tribes c. 3,000–6,000
Outcome
Fort repeatedly attacked and burned; multiple destruction levels in archaeology
The Battle

History & Significance

Vindolanda (Chesterholm) near Hadrian's Wall has produced the famous writing tablets — among the most remarkable archaeological finds in Britain. But it also shows multiple destruction levels, particularly in the late 2nd century, corresponding to the Maeatae/Caledonian raids of 180-197 AD. The fort was apparently burned and rebuilt several times. The garrison's writing tablets — including a birthday party invitation and complaints about the weather — give a uniquely human face to the Roman frontier.

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