Modular Planning in First-Century A.D. Romano-British Auxiliary Forts

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe traditional view that auxiliary forts were set out in units of five and ten Roman feet (pedes Monetales) has little basis in fact and should be re-assessed. Detailed examination of seven sites (Hod Hill, The Lunt, Pen Llystyn, Strageath, Fendoch, Gellygaer, and Caerhun) shows that fractions and multiples of 12 p.M., possibly derived from the actus, were widely used in their planning, the process becoming more rigorous and precise during the second half of the first century a.d. Close links between the seven plans emerge and the key role played by the principia and barracks in their implementation is highlighted.