Ep 2. Papcastle, Cumbria
- January 10, 1999
In Time Team season 6 episode 2, the team travels to Papcastle, Cumbria, an ancient Roman fort site with a rich history. Their mission is to uncover the secrets of the fort and to shed light on the lives of the soldiers who lived there.
Starting out, the team discovers that the fort was built during Hadrian's reign and was most likely abandoned by the end of the Roman occupation. The fort was then used as a quarry in the Middle Ages and was partially destroyed during the English Civil War.
To uncover the remains of the fort, the team employs a variety of excavation techniques, including geophysical surveys, test pits, and trenches. Their efforts quickly pay off as they find evidence of a granary, a barracks, and a number of other structures.
As they begin to piece together the history of the fort, the team learns that it was strategically placed on a major trade route and was used as a place to store provisions for the Roman army. They also discover that the fort was built on top of an earlier Iron Age settlement and that there was a major fire at the site in the 4th century AD.
Throughout the episode, the team is joined by local experts who offer insights into the history of the fort and the surrounding area. They also meet with members of the Papcastle Historical Society, who share their own experiences of the site and help the team to understand the significance of their findings.
As the excavation continues, the team uncovers a number of artifacts, including Roman pottery, coins, and weapons. These finds help to paint a picture of life at the fort and provide clues about the people who lived and worked there.
In the end, the team is able to piece together a detailed picture of the history of Papcastle, Cumbria, and to shed new light on the lives of the Roman soldiers who once called it home. Their findings are sure to be of great interest to historians and archaeologists for years to come.
Overall, Time Team season 6 episode 2 is a fascinating exploration of an ancient Roman fort and the people who lived and worked there. Featuring a wealth of historical and archaeological insights, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of the United Kingdom and the Roman Empire.
