Are There Any Roman Buildings Left in London?

By Robert Palmer

London is a city that is steeped in history, with evidence of its past visible all around us. One of the most influential periods in London’s history was undoubtedly the Roman era.

But are there any remnants of the Roman occupation left in London today? Let’s take a closer look.

Roman London

London was founded by the Romans in AD 43, under the reign of Emperor Claudius. The Romans called it Londinium and it quickly became an important trading hub due to its location on the River Thames. The city grew rapidly over the next few centuries, with many impressive buildings and structures constructed during this time.

The Wall

One of the most famous Roman structures still standing in London is the Wall. Built between AD 190 and 225, it was designed to protect Londinium from outside invaders. Today, you can see parts of the Wall at various locations around the city, including Tower Hill and Barbican.

Amphitheatre

The Romans were known for their love of entertainment, and London was no exception. A large amphitheatre was constructed in what is now known as Guildhall Yard. Although much of it has been lost over time due to construction work and development, some remains can still be seen today.

Baths

Public baths were an important part of Roman culture, and Londinium had its fair share. One such bathhouse was discovered during construction work on Lower Thames Street in 1845. Today, you can see a section of this bathhouse at Billingsgate Market.

Other Structures

While many other buildings from this period have been lost over time due to fires, wars, and development work; there are several other structures that still exist today. These include parts of a temple dedicated to Mithras (a Persian deity), located beneath the Bloomberg building; and a Roman road that once led from London to Silchester, which can be seen in various locations around the city.

Conclusion

So, are there any Roman buildings left in London? The answer is yes – although many have been lost over time, there are still a few impressive structures and remains that can be seen today. From the Wall to the amphitheatre to the public baths, these structures offer us a glimpse into London’s rich and fascinating history.