Hadrian’s wall

 

Running from coast to...almost coast, built as a defense against the strong Celtic tribes in the North and as a demarcation for the province of Britannia (present day United Kingdom,) Hadrian’s wall still stands after a millennial since construction.

For ancient Romans, conquering new territories and cultures was prime at the height of the empire’s power. But emperor Hadrian recognized there was no natural border (like mountains or Rivers) for Britannia as a province.

Roman Empire at its height.

Britain in the West, topmost.

Building the wall started in 122 and was carried out by Roman legions most of who were learned in construction like engineers.

How it would have looked then...

Years after, Hadrian’s successor - Antoine, built another wall farther into the island but it couldn’t withstand the unconquered tribes like Hadrian’s wall did and subsequent emperors had to reoccupy Hadrian’s wall.

A military outpost along the wall.

After Roman rule ended, the wall was unused and plundered for its materials in building other places. John Clayton in 18th century recognized its importance and preserved the length in Northumberland.

Now.

In 2010, beacons were lighted along the wall, celebrating it as a British historic icon and 1600 years end of Roman rule.