More digging is planned for May 2024. In the meantime, here is a round-up of the best objects from the dig this year.
Anna Giecco
This candlestick is from the second or third century AD according to lead archaeologist Frank Giecco. The find is unusual as Romans typically used oil lamps rather than wax candles. Future analysis of the item could be used to determine if beeswax or tallow was used to make the candle found in this holder.
Anna Giecco
Hairpins and needles were worn by high status Roman women to keep their wigs fixed. The needles also were used to thread beads into their hair, Mr Giecco said.
Anna Giecco
Mr Giecco said this dolphin carving from about AD200 was his 'favourite find'. Dolphins are hugely symbolic in the Roman empire, he said. Carlisle may have been the most northerly city in the Roman empire, he added.
Anna Giecco
Many gems have been found on the site since work began on the site. These engraved gems are known as intaglios and are each only a few millimetres in diameter. They would been held in rings worn by people in the bathhouse and are miniature pieces of art.
Anna Giecco
Anna Giecco
Anna Giecco
Anna Giecco
Anna Giecco
