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Roman latrine J000112
HADRIANs WALL: HOUSESTEADS ROMAN FORT (VERCOVICIUM), Northumberland. A reconstruction drawing of the interior of the latrines by Philip Corke. hadrian. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England
Media ID 440440
Filename: J000112.jpg
Size: 4829 x 3620 (14.9MB)
Date: 11th April 2007
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Photo Library
Source: English Heritage Images
Defence Fortification Graphic Illustration Roman Stone Wooden
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> Archaeology > Roman Britain > Reconstructing Roman Britain
> Heritage > Reconstructing the Past > Romans Illustrations
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative reconstruction drawing by Philip Corke brings to life the interior of the Roman latrines at Vercovicium, part of Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, England. The Roman fort at Hadrian's Wall, also known as the fort of Hosteads, was an essential component of the Roman defensive system in the northernmost reaches of the empire. The latrines, a crucial element of daily life for the soldiers stationed here, were typically located at the rear of the fort and were often built as separate structures. The latrines at Vercovicium, like many Roman examples, were constructed from a combination of stone and timber. The central feature of the latrines was the mosaic-lined trench, or cesspit, which collected the waste. The seating area, or sedilia, was made of wooden benches, with drainage channels running beneath them to ensure efficient disposal of waste. The walls of the latrines were often decorated with intricate plasterwork and frescoes, as seen in this illustration. The soldiers would have used wooden spoons, known as defecation implements, to clean themselves after using the latrines. The spoons were often decorated with intricate carvings, as seen in some surviving examples. The latrines were also equipped with water channels, allowing soldiers to wash themselves before and after using the facilities. The reconstruction drawing provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the soldiers stationed at Hadrian's Wall, offering insights into their hygiene practices and the architectural innovations of the Roman Empire. The latrines at Vercovicium are an essential reminder of the complex infrastructure that supported the Roman military presence in Britain, and the enduring legacy of Roman engineering and design.
