Antonine Wall

The Antonine Wall is a Roman defensive line between the estuaries of the Clyde and Forth rivers in central Scotland, running roughly 39 miles. The fortification consists of a turf rampart built on stone foundations, with forts and watchtowers placed at regular intervals.

Between 142 and 144, the fortification was built under Emperor Antoninus Pius by three Roman legions to push the northern frontier further into Caledonian territory. However, the Romans abandoned it after about twenty years and withdrew to Hadrian's Wall.

Soldiers from across the Roman Empire built forts and watchtowers along this fortified boundary, each unit bringing its own building methods and inscriptions. Today, foundations and earthworks at several sites show how the troops lived and used the terrain for their military purposes.

Well-preserved sections are found at Bar Hill Fort and Rough Castle, where remains of buildings and fortifications can be seen. The best time to visit is during dry weather, as the terrain can be muddy and slippery in some places.

North of the turf rampart, legionaries dug a ditch about 40 feet wide and 12 feet deep, piling the excavated soil into a mound. This arrangement strengthened the defensive effect and made any approach more difficult.