The days of the Roman Empire had a profound impact on Europe and beyond over 2,000 years ago. Rome sent its legions as far as they could go to bring more lands and people into the fold, often by force, and the invaders eventually managed to conquer much of the British Isles.
While several other societies both before and after Rome also came to these shores to conquer and establish permanent settlements, few had such a lasting and still visible impact as those from modern-day Italy. Close to Rugby, you can still visit Tripontium town, or go a bit further afield to the Venonis Roman Settlement.
The Lasting Presence of Ancient Rome
Source: Unsplash
You don’t have to look far to see how the Romans changed Britain and continue to have a lasting influence on our everyday lives. Among the perhaps lesser-known creations that Rome brought to us would be the concept of street food, trademarks on goods, the use of currency, and even underfloor heating.
Of course, their more overt continued influence is seen in the prevalence of bureaucracy, roads – mostly direct and straight ones – heated pools, sanitation, plumbing, sewers, and the foundation of towns. As a result, it remains a perpetual source of inspiration for creatives looking to tap into our continued connection with Ancient Rome.
Entertainment is forever presenting new products that link us back to the Roman Empire. Sitting alongside the collection of Megaways slots, Centurion: Maximus Winnus – Megaways showcases this continued fascination with Rome. It’s very much an all-in Ancient Roman game, from the symbols to the characters and backdrop.
TV has also been keen to bring the Romans back to life, and has been rewarded for doing so. Britannia, which ran for three seasons up to the start of this decade, was showered with praise from audiences and critics. This was even with its unique angle of blending the mythical side of native Britons with the all-conquering mighty of Rome.
Warwickshire’s Importance to the Roman Empire
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The obsession with Britain for the Romans began with Julius Caesar. In 55 and 54 BC, he embarked on two military campaigns to the mainland, but neither was with the intent of conquest. He came to gain knowledge and to get tribute from the southern tribes. In the 100 years after Julius Caesar’s demise, relations continued to grow.
It wasn’t until Claudius needed to prove himself as the emperor of the empire that, in AD 41, the invasion of Britain truly got underway. Rome gradually swept across Britain, with Warwickshire being subject to conquest. The legions arrived in force, and while they set up many settlements, they had an eye on further expansion.
Resistance was relatively low in the region, and the tribes of Warwickshire would become clients of the Romans in due course. The county also became the crossroads for Roman movement across modern-day England.
Ancient Rome is a very popular point of interest across the country, but Warwickshire boasts a distinct kind of appeal for its ties to the mighty empire.
Article written by Ben Spencer
