Londinium, Architecture and the Crafts

Delve into the hidden world of Roman London, where stone, brick, and timber were shaped with tools that echo the craftsperson’s workshop a century ago. The opening chapters guide listeners through the everyday materials—adzes, chisels, plumb‑bobs—and the surprisingly precise measurements that governed the city’s streets, walls, and bridges. By comparing these ancient methods with later European traditions, the narrative reveals how Britain’s provincial Roman art forged a distinct identity, blending imperial influence with local ingenuity.

Beyond the mortar and masonry, the book illuminates the broader tapestry of Roman craftsmanship: mosaics, wall paintings, inscriptions, and the subtle artistry that adorned both public monuments and private homes. With vivid descriptions of excavated bricks, decorative tiles, and the tools that once lay in the hands of London’s builders, listeners gain a fresh appreciation for the city’s deep architectural roots, setting the stage for later chapters on monuments, sculpture, and early Christian sites.