Press Release: Romans return to Ravenglass

Romans return to Ravenglass

This press release was published on: 20 Aug 2014

A major historic investigation into a nationally important coastal site is set to return next month. Roman stronghold Ravenglass, once a fort at the southern tip of Hadrian's Wall, will see the second season of a £125,000 community study into the key civilian settlement site.

The three-year Heritage Lottery Fund backed initiative was launched last year. Evidence of occupation was identified in three trenches, along with significant finds including a piece of Samian ceramic, possibly showing Venus.

Situated on the western fringe of the Lake District, Ravenglass boasts an ancient bathhouse, the region's tallest surviving Roman relic from an occupation spanning AD 120 through to the fourth century.

Lake District National Park's archaeology and heritage assistant, Holly Beavitt-Pike, said the important study focused on the significant civilian settlement.

She added: "This is a rare opportunity for people to get involved, not just in understanding their rich heritage, but to leave a lasting legacy.

"September sees us back again, continuing to explore the full extent of the civilian settlement and we are looking for volunteers to get involved.

"Alongside the investigation, we are also inviting members of the public to attend the open days on 12, 13 and 27 September .

"This will be a great opportunity for people to have a tour of the excavation sites, get their hands on some real Roman artefacts and even have a go at digging.

"The third event on Saturday, 27 September, marks the end of the season for the final dig. We'd love people to come along, see what we've found – and even meet a real Roman soldier!"

The open days run from 10.30am to 3pm.

Organised by the Lake District National Park, the project is also supported by Muncaster Parish Council, Muncaster Estate and the Copeland Community Fund.