Further information

The illustration opposite shows what the town may have looked like in AD 200. To the back are the basilica and forum with its central market place. In the front are two temples and to the right is a large house in its private grounds. Work shops and houses line the street on the far right.

The forum, basilica and thermae (baths)

The most important buildings in any Roman town were the forum, the basilica, and the thermae (baths). The basilica formed one side of a group of buildings called the forum. Its central square was the town market place, surrounded on three sides by a covered walkway, shops and offices.

The main building materials used in the town were flint, red tile, unfired clay and wood. Red interlocking tiles were the most common roof covering.

Temples

Caistor had two temples in the town centre. We cannot be sure to which pagan gods they were dedicated. One possible clue comes from the discovery in the town of a bronze saucepan handle, decorated with a figure of the god Mercury.

Industry in the town

Several industries and workshops were based in the town. Evidence has so far been found for the production of glass, bronze brooches, woollen yarn and pottery. The finding of a stamp for marking eye ointment at Caistor shows that medical help was also available.

Evidence of an amphitheatre

Evidence from aerial photographs strongly suggests that an amphitheatre, a large oval arena, was built on the outskirts of the town to the south. Very large, seated, crowds watched sports events and shows in this arena, including chariot races and gladiator fights. For more information see our Entertainment page.

Related pages on this website

• Life under the Romans
• The amphitheatre & Roman entertainment
• Public life in Roman Britain