Becoming Roman – Silchester, a Town of Change
Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery, Basingstoke
Until 28 April 2024
It’s the last chance to see the “fascinating finds” of the Becoming Roman – Silchester, a Town of Change in Basingstoke before it continues on its tour of Hampshire, Dorset and Berkshire. The exhibition was created in partnership with Hampshire Cultural Trust and the University of Reading and opened on 10 February. Since then it has been met with resounding acclaim as visitors enjoy learning about Silchester's evolution from an Iron Age settlement to a bustling Roman town.
Hosted at the Willis Museum and Sainsbury Gallery in Basingstoke, the exhibition is on display until 28 April and is welcoming history enthusiasts, archaeology aficionados and curious minds eager to explore over 2000 years of profound historical transformation.
Silchester, initially established by an offshoot of the Atrebates tribe from northern France, flourished as an Iron Age town. However, with the advent of Roman influence, the landscape of Silchester underwent a remarkable change, marking a significant chapter in its history.
Professor Michael Fulford, from the University of Reading, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "It is wonderful to contribute to an exhibition which showcases some of the great discoveries from the University of Reading's excavations at Silchester."
The exhibition unveils a treasure trove of objects meticulously unearthed during archaeological excavations, offering a glimpse into the daily lives, customs and societal dynamics of the ancient inhabitants. Among the remarkable discoveries are remnants of poignant artefacts such as the skeleton of what is believed to be Britain's first lap dog, buried with reverence indicative of its owner's esteemed status.
As visitors traverse the exhibition, they witness the seamless transition from Iron Age settlement to Roman town, marvelling at the introduction of Roman infrastructure such as street grids, forums and bathhouses. Intriguing insights into Roman daily life unfold, from the intricacies of Roman bathhouse operations to the prevalence of parasitic ailments and the multifaceted roles of healers as both medical practitioners and educators.
Nick Suffolk, Head of Heritage Experience at Hampshire Cultural Trust, emphasized the emotional resonance of the exhibited artefacts, remarking, "These little, everyday occurrences and misfortunes allow us to connect emotionally with the daily life someone living thousands of years ago."
Among the highlights of the exhibition are terracotta floor tiles bearing the imprints of ancient inhabitants, meticulously restored Roman artefacts including a colossal grain storage jar, exquisite gemstone carvings, and a Nero-stamped roof tile. Interactives to engage all ages will include a mosaic repair, a Roman measuring game, animal print tracking and a healing cure. Alongside will be a behind-the-scenes look at an archaeological dig that, 50 years on, is still revealing the secrets of the people of Silchester.
Following its successful debut in Basingstoke, the exhibition will embark on a tour, destinations include:
Red House Museum in Christchurch: 20 July – 1 September 2024
Andover Museum: 6 September – 24 November 2024
Reading Museum and Reading University Library: dates TBC
For further information, please visit https://www.hampshireculture.org.uk/event/becoming-roman-silchester-town-change.