Roman column, York, is a surviving element of the Roman presence in York, England, located just south of York Minster. Dating to the early 2nd century AD, it originally formed part of the headquarters building (principia) of Eboracum, the Roman name for York. It is one of the few visible examples of Roman architecture in the north of England.[1][2]
York was established around AD 71 by the Ninth Legion as a military fortress on the River Ouse. It became a major Roman military centre and later served as the base for the Sixth Legion. The principia complex was the administrative centre of the fortress. The column originally supported part of the basilica's upper structure, either a gallery or the roof.[3]
Centuries of construction over the Roman fortress led to much of Eboracum being buried. The column was uncovered during archaeological excavations beneath York Minster in the late 1960s. These excavations were prompted by structural subsidence and restoration work on the cathedral. The work, carried out by the York Archaeological Trust, revealed substantial remains of the Roman principia.[2]
To mark the 1900th anniversary of York’s founding, the column was reassembled and erected in Minster Yard in 1972. Surviving stone sections were mounted on a modern concrete plinth. A commemorative plaque was added at the site.[2]
Description and construction
The column is approximately 9.5 metres (31 feet) in height. It is made up of eight cylindrical drums of Magnesian Limestone, a common building material in the region during the Roman period.[5]
Its design is functional and consistent with Roman military architecture. The visible shaft is composed mostly of original Roman stonework, although the base is modern. Faint tool marks and ancient repairs are visible upon inspection, offering evidence of Roman construction methods.[1][3]
The column is included in local educational resources and is a common site for school visits related to the National Curriculum topic on Roman Britain.[2]
It is also featured in talks, open days, and heritage events led by local organisations such as the York Civic Trust.[2]
In popular culture
Although the column has not appeared prominently in popular media, it is featured in local publications and visual art as a representation of York's Roman heritage. It is frequently photographed in conjunction with the Minster, and is sometimes used as a backdrop during historical-themed events held in Minster Yard.[6]
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