Severan revival (c. AD 180–225)

Abstract

This chapter describes extensive rebuilding along London’s Severan waterfront. The first phase is tentatively associated with preparations for Clodius Albinus’ naval expedition to Gaul that was launched from Britain. The second is more certainly associated with the reoccupation of Britain by Severus’ general Virius Lupus in AD 197, for which precise tree-ring dating is available. Subsequent enhancements are likely to date to a phase of busy rebuilding c. AD 215/220, which may also be the approximate date of London’s masonry town wall. These various works were associated with busy traffic between Britain and the continent at times of major campaigns, the conduct of which required the revival of the city. The Severan renewal of London also included temples and other monuments arranged along the undefended waterfront. It is suggested that some of these works were the product of imperial patronage at the time of administrative reforms made by Caracalla on the conclusion of Severus’ Scottish wars. This was when Britain was subdivided into two separate provinces. London was made capital of Britannia Superior and perhaps elevated to the status of colonia following similar arrangements made for York as the capital of Britannia Inferior. The new town wall and temples are interpreted as the monumental expression of London’s revived role as a city of importance to the Roman government of Britain. The architectural details of these monuments are also described.