4 May 2025
Archeologists at a Roman fort near Hadrian’s Wall have uncovered a penis-shaped pendant thought to have been used as good luck charm. Recent excavations at Vindolanda, a fort just south of the Sycamore Gap, have unearthed a quirky piece of jewellery within the remains of a 4th Century wall.
The site was under Roman occupation between 85 AD and 370 AD, and today is an active archaeology site with it providing an insight into the lives of people living and working near Hadrian's Wall nearly 2,000 years ago. Among the latest finds from the team of archaeologists is a miniature phallus-shaped pendant made from Jet gemstone, with its smooth surface suggesting the wearer touched it often for good luck
“This little jet pendant was lost at sometime in the early 4th century when the barrack wall in which it was found was constructed,” director of excavations at the Vindolanda Charitable Trust, Dr Andrew Birley, said. “Jet is increasingly common as a material used for jewellery from the early third century onwards and small good luck charms or pendants like these would have been worn by many of the soldiers at places like Vindolanda. “You can see that the pendant is quite smooth, not just because of the material used but also no doubt because the wearer touched the charm for good luck. “We are delighted to find this wonderful little artefact and I have no doubt that this is just the start of many more discoveries to come from Vindolanda this year.”
Phallic imagery was commonly used in as a symbol of good luck in Roman art. Soldiers would often wear fist-and-phallus amulets for luck in battle and parents would kit their children out with penis-shaped pendants to protect them from the evil eye. The symbols have been found on a wide range of Roman objects by archaeologists and historians, from mosaics to lamps. Along Hadrian’s Wall alone, 59 phallic representations have been identified on the wall and in associated forts.
> Archaeologists unearth lucky penis pendant near Hadrian’s Wall
10 December 2024
Archaeologists from France's National Institute of Preventative Archaeological Research (INRAP) have unearthed an extraordinary Roman domus dating back to the 2nd century CE on the outskirts of ancient Durocortorum, now modern-day Reims. The discovery includes three exquisite bronze statuettes and fragments of frescoes, highlighting the cultural sophistication and wealth of the provincial elite during the Roman era.
Durocortorum was a prominent urban center in Roman Gaul, serving as the provincial capital of Gallia Belgica. At its height, the city followed a Roman urban grid centered on a bustling forum, the nucleus of political and religious activity. However, areas farther from the forum, such as the western fringes where the domus was discovered, remain less understood. This residence, over a kilometer from the forum and situated near the Vesle River, showcases the wealth and artistry of its owners despite its peripheral location.
The domus featured an imposing facade with two grand pillars and walls adorned with frescoes. Among these were depictions of life-sized figures, known as megalographies. Notably, fragments of the frescoes referenced the mythological tale of Achilles and Deidamia, a narrative tied to the Trojan War.
This scene, prized in Roman culture, has only been documented in four other locations: Aquileia, Pompeii, Rome, and now Reims. "Its presence in Reims highlights the cultural connections between this provincial capital and the Roman metropolis," stated INRAP.
Amidst the debris of what appears to have been a fire, three bronze statuettes were uncovered, each remarkable for its craftsmanship and symbolic significance:
Mars: This 18-centimeter-tall depiction of the Roman god of war is adorned with intricate details. Its silver-inlaid eyes lend it a lifelike gaze, while its breastplate features a Medusa head and a relief of the Capitoline wolf nursing Romulus and Remus, iconic symbols of Rome. The statuette rests on a circular base adorned with floral motifs in silver and copper.
The Bull: Measuring 16.7 cm in width and 11.6 cm in height, the bull statuette displays a naturalistic expression, emphasized by its silver-highlighted eyes. It rests on a rectangular base that enhances its stability and showcases the artist's skill.
Female Figure: Standing 30.7 cm tall, this statuette is perhaps the most enigmatic. Initially identified as a goddess, the figure combines diverse mythological elements. She wears a helmet adorned with a sphinx and a crenelated crown, possibly an allegory of a city. Slots on her back suggest the former presence of wings. She wields Hercules' club entwined with a serpent, resting on the Nemean Lion's skin, merging various Roman mythological motifs.
> Archaeologists Uncover Opulent Roman Artifacts in Reims
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