Roman Londinium c. 225 CE

Roman Londinium was built in c. 50 CE where the City of London is now located. It grew around the northern end of a garrison timber bridge (Thames Bridge). The Thames allowed easy movement of goods between Britain and the continent. After Queen Boudicca burnt Londinium to the ground during the revolt of the Iceni (60 CE), the Romans rebuilt, creating an improved city with a road and river nexus. The Thames Bridge acted as a conduit for foot and horse traffic, while the downstream wharves and depots were used for ferries and sea-faring trade. By 225 CE, Londinium was the administrative and mercantile capital of Britain. It had a large garrison fort in its northwest corner, temples (such as the recently excavated London Mithraeum at Walbrook) baths, mosaic sites, an amphitheatre and a governor’s palace. The administrative, political and social hub was the Basilica and its forum. A defensive city wall was completed in 225 CE.