The forts on Hadrian s wall: a comparative analysis of the form and construction of some buildings

Abstract

The thesis undertakes a comparative analysis of some of the stone buildings within the forts of the completed concept of Hadrian's Wall. The buildings included are the principia, granaries, gates and barracks. Each building type has been measured and inspected on site, or the data obtained from archival or documentary sources. As a background to the study the forts are set in the context of the Wall, examining its structure, garrisons and taking an overview of the archaeological record, additionally general Roman building techniques are reviewed. The selected buildings within each fort are then discussed and compared with other buildings on the Wall, or on other military sites. In this way then- form, dimensional analysis, construction sequence and building techniques are considered and discussed. Common features and major differences are highlighted in the forts and the buildings, and comparisons drawn. Some tentative links are made as to the builders of the forts and the probable use of standard units of measure. Reconstructions of the buildings are put forward, taking into account the archaeological evidence and architectural considerations. Supporting information supplied in the appendices includes data relating to each fort as well as schedules of dimensions of the buildings, together with comparative tables. A catalogue of the decorated and moulded stonework sets out and discusses the stonework from the various buildings.