Caerleon, City and County of Newport

The Romans knew Caerleon as Isca. In 75 AD, they established a major military fortress here that was maintained by a garrisson of 5,500 men of the 2nd Augustan Legion.

Roman Amphitheatre (Photos by Celtic Ocean - Courtesy of Cadw)


Roman Baths (Photos by Celtic Ocean - Courtesy of Cadw)

This fortress was used as a major base to establish control westwards over Wales and linked diectly north to the fortress at Chester. There is a well-preserved amphitheatre here that was able to accommodate 6,000 spectators and there are the remains of 4 barrack blocks, out of a total of 60, that were originally built to house the legionaries.

The Roman Museum holds a great number of artefacts that were found in Caerleon during archaeological digs; bringing to life the history of the those times.

Further excavations have revealed Roman Baths, indicating the very high standards of living that the Romans enjoyed. These can be viewed from a covered walkway.

Stories suggest that Caerleon's impressive Roman amphitheatre may have been used as King Arthur's Round Table.

Directions

Nearest towns: Newport, Usk.