Repairing Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was constructed in northern England early in the second century AD to protect the Roman colonies from the attacks of the Picts in Scotland*. A 7-mile stretch of the wall, between Great Chesters and Housesteads, was repaired recently. The section, part of what is known as the Clayton Wall (for a 19th-century philanthropist who undertook its preservation), is bordered by the ruins of the Aesica fort to the east and Vercovicium fort to the west.

The repairs were done using stone from Clayton’s 19th-century repairs, when possible. The repaired sections are expected to prevent both Clayton’s Wall and the untouched remains of the Roman wall from deteriorating or being disturbed by livestock.

*The print version of this item incorrectly stated the reason Hadrian's Wall was built.