Site of Sullonicae Roman Settlement

Hidden beneath the modern facade of London, the Site of Sulloniacis Roman Settlement whispers tales of a vibrant past. This unassuming location, once a bustling hub on the Roman road Watling Street, offers a glimpse into the lives of those who walked these paths centuries ago. Sulloniacis, mentioned in the Antonine Itinerary, served as a crucial link between the important Roman centers of Londinium (London) and Verulamium (St. Albans). The Itinerary places Sulloniacis nine Roman miles from Verulamium and twelve from Londinium, aligning with Brockley Hill’s location. Excavations at the Site of Sulloniacis, Brockley Hill, have unearthed a treasure trove of Roman artifacts, including pottery kilns and workshops, clay extraction pits, and domestic dwellings. These findings paint a picture of a thriving industrial and residential community. The discovery of 14 kilns reveals a significant pottery industry, active from AD 60, peaking towards the end of the first century, and continuing until around AD 160. After the pottery production ceased, Sulloniacis continued to thrive as a domestic settlement until the fourth century AD. The name “Sulloniacis” itself adds another layer of intrigue. It is thought to mean “Estate of the family/descendants of Sullonios,” potentially the name of a prominent individual or family. However, the exact meaning remains a subject of scholarly debate. Despite the evidence pointing to Brockley Hill, the precise location of Sulloniacis has been contested. Some experts argue that the absence of typical features of a mansio, like facilities for changing horses, suggests a different location. Nevertheless, the significant Roman remains at Brockley Hill, coupled with the distance measurements in the Antonine Itinerary, strongly support the identification of this site as Sulloniacis. Today, Sulloniacis Roman Settlement offers a unique opportunity to connect with Roman Britain. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of this ancient civilization, inviting us to imagine the sights and sounds of a Roman settlement bustling with life. Though its physical structures may have faded, the story of Sulloniacis lives on, woven into the fabric of London’s rich history.