Isca Silurum, The Roman Fortress of Caerleon in Wales, Caerleon, Wales

Caerleon, in southern Wales, seems like a typical Welsh town with welcoming pubs, restaurants and riverside walks. But it was once most of the important Roman fortresses in Britain. It is also (reputedly) linked with the legendary King Arthur.

Caerleon – known to the Romans as Isca Silurum or Isca Augusta – was the home of the 2nd Augusta Legion from 74 CE until the end of the 3rd century. It was one of three permanent legionary fortresses in Britain (the others were Chester and York). Today’s visitors can walk in the steps of the Romans, exploring the baths, the barracks and the amphitheatre.

Caerleon’s later claim to fame is that it was identified by the medieval chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth as the place where King Arthur fought an important battle and held his court. But, even without the history, this is a pleasant small town to visit, to enjoy the surrounding countryside, and relax in a traditional pub.

The Roman remains are certainly the main attraction for many visitors. You may see Caerleon described as “the lost Roman city”: this is because until a few years ago it was thought that what you see now was the extent of the city. We now know that the site was originally much larger, but most of it remains underground. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).