Bearsden Gardens Reveal Roman Empire's Edge

The remnants of a small Roman fortlet have been unearthed in Bearsden, East Dunbartonshire, discovered in the back gardens of three private residences. This significant find, located adjacent to potential fragments of the Antonine Wall, offers new insights into Roman military presence. The fortlet, dating back to between AD 127-247, was strategically positioned on high ground.

Archaeologists found stone foundations of a turf rampart and a ditch containing peat, wood, and vegetation. Geophysical surveys revealed stone structures believed to be part of the Antonine Wall, which marked the Roman Empire's northernmost frontier approximately 2,000 years ago. This wall stretched about 37 miles from Bo'ness to Old Kilpatrick.

The fortlet's location provided soldiers with commanding views of the landscape, particularly to the north, which was outside Roman jurisdiction. Analysis of the ditch's contents indicates the surrounding area was pasture with some cleared woodland when the fort was built. The Antonine Wall itself, built after AD 142, was constructed of turf on a stone base and was abandoned by the Romans in the AD 160s.

Researchers noted that both the fortlet's base and its ditch lay perpendicular to the Antonine Wall's course in the area. This suggests the fortlet was an integral part of the wall's defensive system, offering a crucial lookout point. The discovery sheds light on the logistical and defensive strategies employed by the Romans along their extensive frontier.