description Hadrian's Wall Overview
Hadrian's Wall is a Roman defensive fortification constructed beginning in 122 CE under the rule of Emperor Hadrian. The stone and turf wall stretches for 73 miles across northern England, marking the northern frontier of the Roman Empire in Britain. It featured a system of milecastles, forts, and ditches designed to control movement and defend against northern tribes. Today, the surviving ruins serve as a major archaeological site and a popular hiking route for outdoor enthusiasts and historians.
help Hadrian's Wall FAQ
When was Hadrian's Wall built?
Construction began in AD 122 under the Roman Emperor Hadrian. The wall marked the northwestern frontier of the Roman Empire in Britain. [English Heritage](https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/faqs-hadrians-wall/)
How long is Hadrian's Wall?
Hadrian's Wall extends about 73 modern miles, or 80 Roman miles, across northern England. It runs between Wallsend near the River Tyne and Bowness-on-Solway. [English Heritage](https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/learn/teaching-resources/local-learning/-hadrians-wall/)
What are the milecastles along Hadrian's Wall?
Milecastles were small fortified gateways placed at roughly one-mile intervals along the frontier. The wall also included larger forts, turrets, ditches, and the Vallum earthwork, so it was a broader military system rather than just a stone barrier.
Which Roman sites can be visited along Hadrian's Wall?
Important surviving sites include Housesteads Roman Fort, Birdoswald Roman Fort, Chesters Roman Fort, and Poltross Burn Milecastle. English Heritage manages or cares for numerous sites along the 73-mile route. [English Heritage](https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/faqs-hadrians-wall/)
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