Chester: A prosperous city in N.W. England which is very conscious of its Roman heritage

Roman Centurion

This evening, I am posting information on Roman-era Chester as sourced from a private tour led by a reenactment Roman centurion.

Chester or Deva was a legionary fortress initially built by the 2nd legion in the AD 70s. Subsequent rebuilding was undertaken by then 20th legion. (Today, Chester is about 28 miles south of Liverpool in N.W. England.)

Deep underground at Pret A Manger sandwich bar.

Eastgate Street, Chester

Roman Gladius, a short-stabbing sword.

Chester City Wall-built on Roman foundations.

Outside of the fortress walls was the largest known military amphitheatre and a civilian settlement.

Roman Amphitheatre.

Video clip of Amphitheatre

In common with other Roman military forts,the fortress contained barracks, granaries, headquarters and military baths. However, at Chester remains were found of an unusual elliptical building which one line of thought has suggested could have been intended  as the Governor of Britain’s headquarters, perhaps in context of a base for an invasion of Ireland. It should also be noted this fort is 20 pct larger than similar structures found elsewhere in Roman Britain.

Illustration of Roman Baths

Part of Roman Baths

Roman gardens

Within the city the current street plans more or less follow the lines of the Roman period roads.

The Cross, Chester.