Glossary of Key Terms
Hadrian's Wall: A 73-mile (117-kilometer) stone barrier built by the Roman Empire in northern Britain to protect its northwestern perimeter from invaders.
Magna Fort: An ancient Roman military fort near Hadrian's Wall where a significant stash of unusually large shoes and other footwear was discovered.
Vindolanda Roman Fort: A well-studied Roman fort near Hadrian's Wall, excavated since the 1970s, which provides comparative data for the Magna Fort discoveries, particularly concerning preserved shoes.
Anaerobic Conditions: Environments lacking oxygen. These conditions are crucial for the preservation of organic materials like leather in archaeological contexts, as they inhibit decay.
Hobnails: Iron nails used to fasten together layers of leather, commonly found in the soles of Roman military boots, contributing to their durability and grip.
Hamian Archers: A specific Roman military troop originating from what is now Syria, known to have been stationed at Magna Fort.
Dalmatian Mountain Soldiers: A Roman military troop from regions that are now Croatia and Serbia, also identified through inscriptions at Magna Fort.
Batavians: A Roman military troop from the Netherlands, recorded as inhabitants of Magna Fort.
Habitational Layers: Archaeological strata (layers) that contain evidence of human occupation, often including forgotten or discarded items that provide insights into daily life.
Tanning Techniques: Ancient methods used to treat animal hides (like cowhide) to convert them into durable leather, often involving natural vegetative matter to make the material water and heat resistant.
Cremation: The practice of burning the dead. This Roman funerary custom is a primary reason why linking ancient Roman artifacts like shoes to specific human remains is challenging for archaeologists near Hadrian's Wall.
