Roman Silchester Roman Silchester, nestled in the British countryside, provided a serene and picturesque backdrop for my birthday walk this year. Rich with history and brimming with natural beauty, this ancient site was the perfect choice for an intimate stroll with my wife to celebrate turning 51. We marveled at the lush greenery, gently swaying trees, and remnants of a bygone era as we embarked on our journey through time and nature.

The history of Calleva Atrebatum is deeply entrenched in the annals of Roman Britain, as an important administrative hub for the Atrebates tribe. Founded around 25 BCE, the town flourished under the rule of Cunobelinus and later, Emperor Claudius who annexed it to the Roman Empire around 43 CE. Characterized by its grid-like street pattern, which was the epitome of Roman urban planning, Calleva Atrebatum boasted a basilica, forum, amphitheater, and even a public bathhouse. As the empire waned, so did this once bustling city; by the late 4th century, it was largely abandoned. Excavations in recent years have shed light on its glorious past, revealing intricate mosaics, pottery, and other artifacts that provide a window into daily life in Roman Britain. Today, the remnants of Calleva Atrebatum stand as a testament to the indelible influence of Rome on Britain's landscape and culture.