Adrianov Val - a powerful protective structure in the UK

Great Britain is an ancient country. During its existence this state has experienced many wars. In ancient times, when there were no modern weapons, for which there are no obstacles, very often defensive walls were built walls, ramparts, moats. One such structure is Adrianov Val, which was supposed to hinder the offensive of enemies.

What kind of shaft is this

The shaft is called the stone-earth wall of Hadrian, which is a very powerful, at the time, defensive fortification. The Romans built it, many centuries ago. Actually, a long time ago there were two shafts, but the second does not enjoy popularity, including because it is poorly preserved. It is called the shaft of Antoninus and is located slightly to the north. The height of the building depended directly on the material used for construction, and the site itself, and the length initially was neither more nor less, but almost 120 kilometers. One end of the shaft was built of stones, the other from the ground. The first had a height of 5-6 meters and a width of three meters, the second - three and six meters, respectively. Someone for some reason believes that he borders with Scotland and England, but this is not so. If you look Adrianov Val on the map, it is clear that he does not reach Scotland for about one kilometer, that is, completely in English territory.

A little history on the construction of the wall of Hadrian

Strengthening has this name for the reason that its construction was initiated by the order of Emperor Hadrian, who at that time ruled Rome and planned a trip to Britain. The exact date is unknown, but it is believed that this was in 122 AD. Also, the reason for this construction is unknown. Most likely, they just wanted to create a symbol of a powerful invincible Roman Empire. After all, the state absolutely did not need a defensive structure, since no one posed a threat to it. Economically, strengthening itself did not justify itself, and the shaft could not hold back the onslaught of the enemy. It was much easier to add land to the empire, which would have been much cheaper. It is not clear why they built 17 real forts and built two full shafts, where more than 10 thousand people were serving.

Further fate of the shaft

With the departure of the Romans from these places the structure collapsed. In the 18th century, a road was built here and most of the wall was simply demolished, as it interfered with the construction. John Clayton first drew attention to the remaining Adrianov Val and in the XIX century bought some of the land under it. Seeing this, the locals stopped tearing the remaining stones and pulling them away. Over time, these lands became the property of the National Trust, which was engaged in a noble cause - the preservation of historical and natural heritage. And in 2003, here, along the former fortification, opened a path for backpackers.

Device of strengthening Adrianov shaft

As we know, strong and massive walls often served as a powerful defense not only of cities, but of countries from the attack of enemies. We also know well about the Great Wall of China, which is the most famous example of such fortifications. So, the British construction is a mini-analogue of it. It consisted mainly of stone and peat, stretching east from the western part of the island, while resting on the one side in the river Solway, and on the other - the river Tyne. Observational towers were installed along the entire length, quite high. The structure was trimmed from the outside with a brick, and the turf - from the inside. Also, for the purpose of additional protection, deep moats were dug ahead and behind the shaft. For 250 years, Adrianov was maintained in good condition, despite the frequent change of the owners: he was in possession of the Romans, then the Pict. About its further fate has already been told above, it remains only to report that some parts of the shaft were preserved only because the local residents used them as a quarry.

Light show and theatrical performance at Adrian's Wall

This presentation was played for the first time at this fortification on March 13 this year. This show was completely free. For the first time in about 1600 years of its existence, the construction of the Roman Empire was supplied from the beginning to the end with lighting projectors. Creating this show, the organizers have done a good job. Tourists saw a completely different Adrianov Val. The United Kingdom once again proved that it is a great country. First, to the shaft (in the face of the actors from the Theater Anu) beautiful angels descended, and in half an hour the first lights began to light. Gradually the illuminated path stretched farther to the west and ended on the coast near Cumbria. For good lighting of a sufficiently long distance, specialists installed about 500 spotlights specially selected for this purpose. They were installed at a distance of 250 meters from each other. It was an amazing show. Many of the travelers and tourists at this time shot Adrianov Val. Photos turned out magnificent, but could not completely reflect all the beauty of what is happening. For this, it was necessary to look at it with my own eyes. Especially at the performances of actors and chic fireworks. But nothing, you have such an opportunity - the show will be repeated periodically.