Image Credit: Elaine Vallack

Unique Roman Gem Found Beyond Hadrian Wall

Archaeologists excavating the Roman fort of Bremenium in Northumberland, northern England, have uncovered a unique engraved gemstone depicting a mythological grape-harvesting scene — a design rarely seen in northern Europe.
The blood-red intaglio, likely once set in a Roman man’s signet ring, shows two winged Cupids picking grapes beside a goat-like creature, symbolizing abundance and festivity. Researchers believe the gem originated from the Mediterranean region, suggesting its wearer may have come from southern Europe.
Excavations at Bremenium, located 24 miles north of Hadrian’s Wall, have revealed a wealth of Roman artifacts. The fort, built in the late first century A.D., served as a strategic outpost for monitoring northern territories. This year’s finds include brooches, oil lamps, sling bullets, amphora fragments from Spain, and lead seals used for official correspondence.
The fifth excavation season, led by Richard Carlton of Newcastle University and Bob Jackson of the Redesdale Archaeology Group, confirmed the presence of inner fortification walls and multiple rebuilding phases from the first to third centuries A.D.
“This year’s discoveries are exceptional in both quantity and quality,” said Jackson. “The range of finds provides a vivid glimpse into the trade, craftsmanship, and everyday life of Roman soldiers at the edge of the empire.”
The team plans to resume excavations in 2026, hoping to uncover more insights into the lives of Roman settlers stationed beyond Hadrian’s Wall.

Published on: 07-11-2025

Source: Live Science