Archaeologists have uncovered extraordinary relics at the ancient Roman fort of Bremenium, located in northern England, including a remarkable 2,000-year-old preserved fruit. This discovery was made as part of an ongoing excavation that has also revealed a host of other artifacts offering a comprehensive view of Roman life in the region during the first century AD.
The fort, situated about 33 miles northwest of Newcastle upon Tyne and over 20 miles north of Hadrian’s Wall, has become a focal point for understanding the role of Roman Britain in the broader empire. Recent excavations, led by the Northumberland National Park Authority in collaboration with volunteers and archaeology students, have uncovered an impressive array of items. These include finely crafted imported pottery, military artifacts such as spearheads and slinger’s lead shot, and decorative objects such as a votive oil lamp, a lead seal, and engraved gemstones, or intaglios.
One of the most fascinating finds was a piece of fruit—believed to be a plum—that has provided archaeologists with rare insight into the dietary practices and preservation techniques of the ancient Roman world. The fruit’s preservation, estimated to be over 2,000 years old, is an exceptional example of organic material surviving from the Roman era.
Chris Jones, the Northumberland National Park Authority’s historic environment officer, expressed enthusiasm over the collective efforts of all involved in the dig. He highlighted the significance of these findings in understanding the past and emphasized the importance of community engagement in the preservation of historical knowledge and heritage.
Bob Jackson, the excavation supervisor from the Redesdale Archaeological Group, praised the exceptional quality and quantity of the artifacts uncovered at Bremenium. He noted that the diverse range of pottery and metalwork, such as the amphora and the intact brooches, provides valuable insights into trade, craftsmanship, and daily life at the Roman site. The continued efforts of archaeologists and volunteers are not only enriching our understanding of the Roman period but are also contributing to the broader narrative of British history.
These excavations at Bremenium Fort are part of a larger trend of significant discoveries in the region, as other ancient Roman sites, such as Vindolanda, have also yielded remarkable finds, including an ancient depiction of a Roman goddess and the unearthed remains of 2,000-year-old shoes, which continue to captivate both scholars and the public alike.