Antonine Wall as World Heritage Site
The Antonine Wall, the ruined Roman frontier that stretches
between the Firth of Clyde and Firth of Forth, has been
nominated to become a World Heritage Site as part of an
initiative involving three other European countries.
Scotland, Austria, Germany and Slovakia have all signalled
their intention to nominate local sections of the Roman
occupation for World Heritage Status.
The United Nations Education, Science and Culture
Organisation (UNESCO) is looking at a proposal to take forward
the separate nominations under one name 'European Frontiers of
the Roman Empire'.
This is the first
time there has been a multi-country bid made for World
Heritage status. If the European proposal is successful it
is hoped that the African and Asian nations with Roman
frontiers would seek inclusion.
Deputy Culture Minister Elaine Murray said:
"The Antonine Wall is the best preserved frontier in the
whole Roman Empire after Hadrian's Wall.
"It is remarkable that these earthworks, constructed some
2,000 years ago, have survived so well. World Heritage Site
status should ensure their survival for many years to come and
emphasise the history we share with our European
neighbours.
"Scotland's wealth of culture is a major draw for tourism,
our biggest industry. Our world class natural and culture
heritage is essential in maintaining and improving our share of
the tourism market, and we are committed to ensuring it remains
in good condition and receives the recognition it
deserves."
The wall follows the line from Old Kirkpatrick on the Clyde
to Bo'ness on the Forth for 37 miles.
It was built on the orders of the Emperor Antoninus Pius
following the re-conquest of Southern Scotland by his army in
140-142 A.D.
It was made up of a turf rampart on a stone base, fronted by
a wide and deep ditch. Forts linked by a road, were built at
roughly two-mile intervals.
The Antonine Wall was only occupied for a generation, being
abandoned soon after 160 A.D. About two-thirds of the wall
survives today, the rest has been lost to housing, factories
and roads.
Image of Roman coin courtesy of Museum of London.
Inscription reads: Antoninus Aug Pius PP
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