Verulamium, Roman archaeological site in St Albans, England
Verulamium is an ancient city in St Albans, England, whose remains include walls, a theatre, forum foundations, and residential buildings spread across a broad area beside the River Ver. The layout of the structures can still be traced today, and sections of the town wall rise several meters from the ground.
The town was rebuilt by Roman troops after an uprising in the first century and developed into an important trading hub. In the fifth century, residents left the area permanently after several fires and raids.
The ancient name derives from a Celtic settlement that existed before Roman occupation and was later transformed into a town. Visitors can explore the floor plans of former homes with underfloor heating at several locations, showing how Roman families lived in Britain.
Access follows marked paths in the park that wind between the preserved ruins and offer a good overview of the site. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear as some sections are uneven and can become slippery after rain.
The excavated theatre from the second century seated spectators and likely hosted animal displays alongside dramatic performances. It is the only Roman theatre of its kind in Britain that has been fully exposed for visitors.
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