Romans in South Shields: Life on the Edge of Empire
Romans in South Shields: Life on the Edge of Empire
What do you already know about the Romans in South Shields?
Learning Objective
At the end of the lesson you will know why the Romans came to South Shields, what they did there, and what Roman life was like in South Shields.
Where Is South Shields?
South Shields is in the North East of England, near the River Tyne and the North Sea. This location was important for the Romans.
Why Did the Romans Come?
The Romans came to South Shields to build forts and control trade and travel along the River Tyne. They wanted to protect their empire’s northern border.
Arriving by Land and Sea
Romans travelled by ship and road to reach South Shields. The river and sea allowed easy movement of people and goods.
The Fort at South Shields
The fort was a busy place, helping explorers, soldiers, and traders from across the Roman world.
Arbeia was the name of the Roman fort in South Shields. It guarded the river and stored supplies for Roman soldiers.
Arbeia Roman Fort
Why Was It Important?
What Did the Romans Build?
Romans built stone walls, large gateways, barracks, and storehouses. Some of these can still be seen at Arbeia Fort today.
Daily Work in the Fort
People made bread, repaired armour, made pottery, and looked after supplies. There were bakers, blacksmiths, and potters in the fort.
Life for Roman Soldiers
Roman soldiers trained daily. They slept in shared rooms called barracks and ate bread, soup, and cheese.
Families and Children
Families lived near the fort. Children played games and went to school, learning to read and write.
Food and Cooking
Roman people ate bread, fruit, cheese, and sometimes meat or fish. They cooked on open fires or in ovens.
What Did Romans Wear?
Roman men wore tunics and cloaks. Women wore long dresses called stolas. Soldiers wore armour and helmets.
Roman Life: Quiz Time!
Why did the Romans build a fort at South Shields? A. To store supplies B. For fun C. To build houses
Question 2:
Question 1:
What was a Roman fort called? A. Stola B. Arbeia C. Barrack
More Quiz Questions!
Question 4:
What is one thing Romans built at South Shields? A. Swimming pool B. Stone walls C. Rollercoaster
What did most Roman soldiers eat? A. Pizza B. Bread and soup C. Chocolate
Question 3:
Summary: Romans in South Shields
The Romans came to South Shields to protect and control the land. They built strong forts and made the area an important place on the edge of the Roman Empire.
Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.
Write down 2 things you want to know more about.
Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.