Another pub sign in the centre of York with strong historical connections is the Roman Bath.
The pub is built above an ancient Roman bath house. The remains were uncovered during building work when the present pub was erected in 1929-31 replacing an inn. The exterior has Tudor Revival features including applied half-timbering. The pub is however more notable for the Roman remains which can be viewed inside.
This bath house served the military personnel of Eboracum (Roman York). The facility was in Eboracum's fortress (built in the 1st century AD to house a legion of about 5,000 men). Tiles have been discovered at the bath house site which are marked with the identity of specific legions which suggest that the Ninth legion may have constructed the facility.
The caldarium and some other features of the baths are visible. Some of the other facilities would have been outside the corner site occupied by the pub: those areas of the baths have yet to be excavated.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and fav, they are very much appreciated.
Much of central York has archaeological remains below existing buildings, most as yet undiscovered. Whenever there is building work in the centre, the archaeologists are there to see what is uncovered. An office block in Rougier Street is due for demolition soon and a major archaeological excavation will take place there on what is believed to be a significant part of the Roman civilian settlement. It will be fascinating to see what is discovered.
Thank you all for your lovely comments and fav, they are very much appreciated.
Much of central York has archaeological remains below existing buildings, most as yet undiscovered. Whenever there is building work in the centre, the archaeologists are there to see what is uncovered. An office block in Rougier Street is due for demolition soon and a major archaeological excavation will take place there on what is believed to be a significant part of the Roman civilian settlement. It will be fascinating to see what is discovered.
Ian
Thank you Pat - there are layers and layers of history here in York, and so much left to discover!
Ian