Concangis

Concangis, nestled in the heart of Chester-le-Street in Durham, England, is a hidden gem of Roman Britain. This ancient auxiliary castra, now known as Chester-le-Street Roman Fort, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of Roman soldiers and their legacy in the British Isles. Located just 6 miles north of Durham and 8 miles south of Newcastle upon Tyne, Concangis is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

The Historical Significance of Concangis

Concangis, a name of Brittonic origin possibly derived from a root meaning horse, stands as a testament to the Roman Empire's far-reaching influence. The fort's strategic location, overlooking the valleys of the Wear to the east and the Cong Burn to the north, made it an ideal site for monitoring and controlling movement along the Roman road of Dere Street. This road connected various forts near Hadrian's Wall and extended south to Eboracum (modern-day York).

Initially constructed in the 70s AD by the Legio IX Hispana (Ninth Hispanic Legion) using turf and timber, Concangis was later rebuilt in stone by the Legio II Augusta (the Second Augustan Legion) in the early 2nd century. This reconstruction coincided with the construction of Hadrian's Wall, also partly built by the Legio II Augusta. The fort covered approximately six and a half acres, a substantial size for a Roman auxiliary fort.

Discovering the Ruins

Although much of the fort now lies beneath the modern town of Chester-le-Street, visitors can still explore portions of the excavated officer's quarters. Excavations carried out in 1978 and 1990/1991 unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, fine tableware, coins, animal bones, and even a cheese press. One particularly charming find is a tile imprinted with a dog's footprint, a small but poignant connection to the daily lives of the fort's inhabitants.

Among the more significant discoveries are altars dedicated to various deities, reflecting the diverse religious practices of the Roman soldiers stationed at Concangis. These altars include dedications to the war god Mars, the sun god Apollo, and Celtic and German gods such as Digenis and Vitiris. The number of altars dedicated to patron deities concerned with the wellbeing of veteran soldiers suggests a high proportion of ex-military men among the fort's inhabitants.

The Garrison of Concangis

While a construction inscription attests that the Legio II Augusta built or rebuilt the fort, the actual garrison consisted of auxiliary troops. An incomplete inscription mentions an Alae Antoninae (Antonine Wing), likely involved in routine patrols and maintenance work on an aqueduct and latrines. Based on nearby finds and units with similar names, it is believed that the garrison included the Ala Secundae Asturum Antoniniana (Second Wing of Antonine Asturians), a unit that participated in Emperor Septimius Severus's campaigns in Caledonia.

Additionally, a tile bearing the initials NV suggests the presence of the Numeri Vigilum, a company of watchmen, during the 4th century AD. This unit is listed as Praefectus Numeri Vigilum Concangios (The Prefect of the Company of Watchmen from Concangis) under the Duke of the Britains.

Exploring the Legacy

Despite the modern overlay of Chester-le-Street, the legacy of Concangis endures. Two large stones with lewis holes for lifting, found in a buttress of the parish church of St Mary and St Cuthbert, strongly suggest they were recycled from the Roman fort. These stones serve as a tangible link to the fort's past and the enduring influence of Roman engineering.

Visitors to Chester-le-Street can immerse themselves in the rich history of Concangis, exploring the remnants of the officer's quarters and viewing the artifacts uncovered during excavations. The town itself, with its charming streets and historical significance, provides a delightful backdrop for this journey into the past.

Conclusion

Concangis is more than just a historical site; it is a window into the lives of the Roman soldiers who once patrolled the edges of the Empire. The fort's strategic location, impressive construction, and the wealth of artifacts discovered there all contribute to its enduring allure. Whether you are a history buff or simply curious about the ancient world, a visit to Concangis in Chester-le-Street promises a captivating and enriching experience. So, step back in time and explore the legacy of the Romans in Britain at this remarkable site.