Archaeologists conducting excavations at a Roman bathhouse in Carlisle, England, have recently made a significant discovery—two colossal carved sandstone heads near Hadrian’s Wall. These remarkable finds were uncovered as part of the Uncovering Roman Carlisle project, a community-supported excavation taking place at the Carlisle Cricket Club. The project focuses on investigating the Roman bathhouse that was initially discovered in 2017 by archaeologists from Wardell Armstrong.
The bathhouse sits in close proximity to the Roman fort of Uxelodunum, also known as Petriana, which was strategically located in the Carlisle district of Stanwix. The name Uxelodunum translates to “high fort,” reflecting its position and defensive role in the region. The fort was established to maintain control over territories west of modern-day Carlisle and to secure an important crossing along the River Eden. Positioned behind the Hadrianic barrier, Uxelodunum was integrated into the defensive network of Hadrian’s Wall, with the Wall itself serving as the northern boundary of the fort. This strategic placement allowed for both defense and oversight of Roman activities in the area. The fort was home to the Ala Petriana, an elite cavalry unit composed of 1,000 soldiers, each of whom had been granted Roman citizenship as a reward for exceptional valor in battle. This prestigious unit played a crucial role in maintaining Roman influence in the region.
Over the years, previous excavations of the bathhouse have revealed a wealth of artifacts and structural features, offering valuable insight into Roman life. Among the discoveries were several rooms, an advanced hypocaust heating system, terracotta water pipes, and well-preserved floor surfaces. The site has also yielded fragments of painted tiles, pieces of Roman cooking pots, and an array of engraved gemstones, known as intaglios, which date from the late 2nd century or early 3rd century AD. These intricately carved gems were often used in signet rings or as decorative embellishments, providing a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship of the Roman period.
The latest phase of excavation, led by a team of archaeologists and local volunteers, has yielded the astonishing find of two massive carved heads, each approximately three times the size of a human head. These heads are believed to have once been part of grand sculptures standing between 12 and 15 feet (3.5-4.5 meters) in height. Based on stylistic analysis and the context in which they were found, experts estimate that the carvings date back to around the 2nd century AD. The team speculates that these imposing statues may have depicted Roman gods, possibly deities associated with the bathhouse or the military presence at Uxelodunum.
Cllr Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s portfolio holder for Vibrant and Healthy Places, expressed excitement about the discovery, stating, “This is exciting news and is a real coup so early into the dig. It is a significant find and it is great to hear that they were unearthed by volunteers. Carlisle has a rich Roman history, and this further strengthens the city’s connection to that era. I can’t wait to see what else is found!” The discovery of these monumental sculptures adds to the growing body of evidence that highlights the historical significance of Roman Carlisle, reinforcing its status as an important site of Roman occupation and culture in Britain.
In addition to the carved heads, excavations at the site have also uncovered several tiles bearing the official Roman Imperial stamp. The stamp features the abbreviation “IMP,” which stands for “Imperator,” the Latin term for “Emperor.” This mark indicates that the tiles were produced by an imperial tilery or a state-sanctioned brick-making facility. Such official markings provide valuable information about the organization of Roman industry and supply chains, revealing the extent of state control over construction materials used in military and civic buildings.
The ongoing excavations at the Roman bathhouse continue to shed light on the complexities of life in Roman Britain, particularly in regions of strategic military importance. The presence of a well-equipped bathhouse near the fort suggests a high standard of living for the Roman soldiers stationed at Uxelodunum. Roman bathhouses were not merely places for hygiene and relaxation; they also served as social hubs where soldiers and civilians could engage in conversation, conduct business, and participate in communal activities. The presence of intricate tilework, heating systems, and decorative sculptures indicates that this bathhouse was more than just a utilitarian structure—it was a center of Roman culture and identity.
The discovery of the colossal carved heads raises intriguing questions about their original placement and purpose. Were these statues positioned within the bathhouse complex itself, possibly serving as decorative elements in the main bathing hall? Or did they stand as imposing figures near the entrance, greeting those who entered the facility? The fact that they were found in proximity to the bathhouse suggests they held an important symbolic or religious role, possibly representing gods associated with healing, water, or military strength.
The Roman presence in Carlisle is well-documented, but each new discovery deepens our understanding of how the Romans lived, worked, and interacted with the native Britons. The city of Carlisle has long been recognized as a key Roman stronghold, and the evidence unearthed at the bathhouse site only reinforces its historical importance. With each layer of earth removed, archaeologists uncover new chapters in the story of Roman Britain, providing a more comprehensive picture of the past.
As the excavation progresses, archaeologists and historians eagerly anticipate further discoveries that may help clarify the bathhouse’s full significance and the broader role of Uxelodunum within the Roman frontier. The combination of elite military presence, imperial construction materials, and grand sculptures suggests that this was a site of considerable importance, perhaps even visited by high-ranking Roman officials.
The findings at the Carlisle bathhouse serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Roman engineering, artistry, and culture. The fact that such artifacts continue to emerge from the ground after nearly two millennia speaks to the remarkable craftsmanship and durability of Roman structures. It also highlights the invaluable role of community-supported archaeology in preserving and uncovering history.
Moving forward, researchers plan to conduct further analysis on the carved heads, including detailed examinations of their stylistic features and any traces of original paint or inscriptions. If inscriptions are found, they could provide crucial information about the identity of the figures depicted or the patrons who commissioned them. Additionally, archaeologists will continue to study the broader bathhouse complex, mapping its layout and investigating its connections to the fort.
The excavation at the Roman bathhouse in Carlisle is a vivid reminder that history is still being written beneath our feet. As new discoveries come to light, they offer fresh perspectives on the lives of those who walked these lands nearly two thousand years ago. With each artifact uncovered, we gain a deeper appreciation of the complexities of Roman Britain and the lasting impact of one of history’s greatest civilizations.
