HISTORIES AND MYSTERIES

Nestled along the banks of the River Exe in the heart of Devon, the city of Exeter boasts a rich tapestry of history that stretches back over two thousand years. While Exeter is known for its mediaeval charm, tucked away beneath the bustling streets lies a forgotten treasure—an ancient Roman city known as Isca Dumnoniorum. In this article, we embark on a journey through time to uncover the lost city of Isca and shed light on its profound impact on Devon's history.
Isca Dumnoniorum was founded by the Romans in AD 55 as a strategic military outpost during their conquest of Britannia.
The conquest of Britain by the Romans stands as one of the most significant chapters in the history of ancient Europe. It was a feat of ambition, determination, and military prowess that would shape the destiny of the British Isles for centuries to come. The story of this conquest is a captivating narrative of power struggles, political manoeuvring, and the clash of civilizations.
The Romans’ interest in Britain can be traced back to Julius Caesar’s expeditions in 55 and 54 BC. These early incursions, though not successful in establishing a permanent Roman presence, planted the seeds of Roman curiosity and ambition. It was under the rule of Emperor Claudius, in AD 43, that the Roman conquest of Britain truly began.
Claudius saw in Britain a land ripe for conquest, with its abundant resources, fertile lands, and potential for expanding the Roman Empire. A force of approximately 40,000 soldiers, led by the experienced general Aulus Plautius, landed on the shores of southeastern Britain. They faced fierce resistance from the native Celtic tribes, such as the Catuvellauni and the Iceni, led by warrior queens like Boudicca. However, the Roman military machine, with its disciplined legions and superior tactics, gradually gained the upper hand.
The conquest of Britain proceeded in stages as Roman forces steadily pushed westward and northward, establishing a network of forts, roads, and administrative centres. The Romans faced challenges from both the natural landscape, with its marshes, forests, and rugged terrain, as well as from the tenacity of the native tribes. Yet, their engineering skills and military organisation allowed them to overcome these obstacles.
One of the pivotal moments in the conquest was the capture of Camulodunum (modern-day Colchester) in AD 43. This marked the establishment of the province of Britannia and the Roman foothold in Britain. The Romans quickly moved to consolidate their control, constructing cities such as Londinium (London) and Verulamium (St Albans) as centres of governance, trade, and Roman culture.
Resistance to Roman rule persisted, notably in the north where the Celtic tribes, particularly the Brigantes and the Caledonians, fiercely resisted the invaders. The Roman general Gnaeus Julius Agricola launched a series of military campaigns in the late 1st century AD, pushing the Roman frontier further north and bringing large parts of modern-day Scotland under Roman control.
Situated on the Fosse Way—a vital Roman road connecting the cities of Lincoln and Seaton—Isca became a flourishing urban centre and the administrative capital of the Dumnonii tribe. Its strategic location and bustling trade made Isca a thriving hub of commerce, culture and governance in the region.
The Roman presence in Isca was marked by the construction of a formidable fortress that encompassed an area of approximately 20 acres. The fortress housed a legion of soldiers tasked with maintaining control over the region. The remains of the fortress walls and the iconic gatehouse, now known as Rougemont Castle, stand as silent sentinels, offering a glimpse into the military might that once defined Isca.
Beyond its military significance, Isca was a bustling Roman city with a thriving civilian population. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of well-planned streets, an elaborate water system, bathhouses, a market and a forum—essential elements of Roman urban life. The discovery of coins, pottery and other artifacts provides valuable insights into the daily lives of Isca's inhabitants and their interactions with the wider Roman world.
Isca Dumnoniorum was not only a centre of trade and governance, but also a melting pot of diverse cultures. The Roman presence brought with it a fusion of Roman, Celtic, and indigenous influences, resulting in a unique cultural blend. This is evident in the architectural remnants and artifacts discovered, showcasing a harmonious coexistence of Roman and indigenous traditions.
With the decline of the Roman Empire, Isca gradually lost its prominence and faded into obscurity. The ruins of the city were covered by subsequent layers of history, and its memory was largely forgotten. However, in the 19th century, a renewed interest in archaeology led to the rediscovery of Isca’s remains. The excavations that followed unveiled a wealth of Roman artifacts and structures, sparking a renewed appreciation for the city’s historical significance.
Today, the legacy of Isca Dumnoniorum is meticulously preserved and celebrated. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum in Exeter houses a remarkable collection of Roman artifacts discovered at the site, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of Isca’s past. The city’s Roman history is also commemorated through various events, exhibitions and educational initiatives, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the importance of Isca in Devon’s historical narrative.
The lost city of Isca Dumnoniorum stands as a testament to Exeter’s Roman past and its enduring influence on Devon’s history. From its military might and urban sophistication to its cultural fusion and subsequent rediscovery, Isca offers a captivating window into the Roman world and its legacy. As we explore the remnants of this forgotten city, we are reminded of the remarkable civilizations that have shaped our present and the importance of preserving these historical treasures for generations to come.