Birth of Rome
A splendid gallery of the commemoration parade to celebrate the Birth of Rome. No one was suckled by a wolf, apparently – people clearly weren’t trying hard enough.
Roman Vindolanda
Roman Vindolanda is well worth your time. Just south of Hadrian’s Wall, it was a frontier fort and village, occupied for over 300 years. It’s constantly spurting archeological treasures, such as the famous Vindolanda Writing Tablets, which are the oldest surviving handwritten documents in the UK, and the oldest one written in Latin by a woman – anywhere. The museum is excellent, though doesn’t permit photographs unfortunately. I was so inspired, I very nearly bought a replica Roman helmet and sword. Very nearly.
Hadrian’s Wall & Environs
Incredible place, as you would imagine, but very bleak. God/Jupiter only knows what the Romans must have thought about being despatched here. Luckily we were there on a good day, and could see for miles in all directions. The air was chock-full of the sound of skylarks, and much of the surrounding environment was marshy grassland, with the odd sheep farm (and pub) in between. It transformed into quite the terrifying landscape when it rained.
Alexander at the Temple of Apis in Memphis
By Andre Castaigne( 1898-1899)
It’s my birthday today – I’m 31. Alexander the Great died at the age of 32. Educated by Aristotle, his empire was one of the largest in the ancient world. It reached from Greece to India. His deeds were a profound influence on cultures for hundreds of years to come – especially the Romans.
I’ve got a year left to achieve this much. Who’s good with a spear?
