The geography of LondiniumPeople were living around the future site of Londinium when the Romans arrived, but there was no large settlement. Instead, there were isolated homesteads in Southwark and scattered throughout the Thames Valley. The terrain upon which the first London developed had a number of natural advantages. On the north bank of the river Thames, two hills, with the Walbrook stream between them, formed an ideal area for building, free from flooding. The south bank was marshy and liable to flooding. However, two islands of sand and gravel gave a drier approach, which the Romans later used for bridging the river.
The area had a constant water supply from the Thames and its tributaries, the Fleet and the Walbrook. They all provided water for drinking, sanitation and industry. After 2000 years of habitation, these features of the landscape, so attractive to the Romans, are now hidden.
Exhibition sponsored by
©Museum of London
|
