Which Roman Emperor Built a Wall to Try and Keep Foreigners Out?

The Roman emperor who famously built a wall to control the movement of people and secure the empire's borders was Hadrian.

Emperor Hadrian and His Iconic Wall

Emperor Hadrian, who ruled from AD 117 to 138, is renowned for his extensive building projects and his focus on consolidating the Roman Empire's existing territories rather than further expansion. One of his most enduring legacies is the defensive fortification known as Hadrian's Wall.

Following his visit to Britain in AD 122, Hadrian ordered the construction of this formidable barrier across the north of the island. The primary purpose of the wall was to mark the northern frontier of the Roman Empire and control the movement of goods and people, effectively trying to keep unconquered tribes, often referred to as foreigners by the Romans, out of Roman territory and prevent raids.

Key Aspects of Hadrian's Wall

Hadrian's Wall served as the north-west frontier of the Roman Empire for nearly 300 years, a testament to its strategic importance and the engineering prowess of the Roman army.

• Construction: It was built by the Roman army, a massive undertaking involving legions of soldiers who were skilled in construction as well as warfare.
• Location: Stretching approximately 73 miles (117 kilometers) from Wallsend on the River Tyne in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, it traversed the narrowest part of Britain.
• Purpose:
  • Defense: To protect Roman Britain from raids by the Picts and other tribes residing to the north.
  • Control and Regulation: To regulate trade and control the entry and exit of people into Roman territory, ensuring that only those deemed acceptable could pass through designated checkpoints.
  • Symbol of Power: To serve as a visible declaration of Roman authority and the limit of their empire.

The wall was more than just a stone barrier; it was a complex military zone featuring milecastles (small forts every Roman mile), turrets (watchtowers), and larger forts housing garrisons of soldiers.

Hadrian's Legacy in Frontier Defense

Hadrian's approach to frontier defense was influential. Instead of continuous expansion, he focused on strengthening existing borders, a policy that aimed for long-term stability. While Hadrian's Wall was designed to exclude, it also fostered a unique cultural exchange along its boundaries, influencing both Roman and native communities.

Here's a quick overview of key facts related to the wall:

Today, Hadrian's Wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the globe who come to explore this remarkable piece of Roman history. You can learn more about its history and significance on sites like English Heritage.