Roman Period - National Museum Cardiff

[image: Abergavenny Leopard Cup]

About AD 410

It is quite possible that when the Romans invaded Britain in AD 43 their plans for conquest did not extend much beyond the south-east of England.

However, within five years the Roman army was fighting in what is now Wales, which was to become part of the Empire for some 350 years.

The Abergavenny Leopard Cup is probably the finest Roman vessel to have been found in Wales, and can be viewed in Origins.

It gives a strong indication of aspects of classical, Mediterranean lifestyle reaching Wales, and has highlighted the significance of the scientific analysis of archaeological objects.

[image: Abergavenny Leopard Cup]

Following the conquest (AD 74–8) about 30,000 soldiers were stationed across Wales. The intensive military occupation lasted for nearly fifty years, but by the 130s AD most forts no longer held soldiers, suggesting the native population had generally accepted Roman rule.

In the early 400s AD the central Roman authorities lost control of Britain. It was never to be regained.

The economic consequences of the chaotic conditions were spectacular. Roman coinage stopped reaching Britain and the structures that provided access to Romanized goods and services collapsed. The end of Roman rule in Britain had come.