Archaeologists have discovered a remarkably preserved Roman lime kiln at the Centre Severn site in Gloucester, UK [3, 4]. Cotswold Archaeology led the excavation, which took place between September 2020 and February 2021 [3, 12]. The discovery sheds light on Roman construction techniques and industrial practices in the area of Glevum, the Roman settlement that became Gloucester [3, 7].
The kiln, dating back to the 2nd-3rd centuries AD, measures four meters wide and two meters high [3, 4, 12]. Constructed from stone blocks and clay mortar, it features a central ledge and partition for improved ventilation during the lime-burning process [3, 4]. Lime kilns were crucial for producing quicklime, a key ingredient in Roman mortar, plaster, and concrete [3, 4].
The kiln's strategic location near the limestone-rich Cotswold Hills and the Forest of Dean, a source of timber and coal, highlights its importance for resource access [3, 4, 12]. Experts believe the quicklime produced at this kiln likely supplied nearby Roman settlements like Glevum and Corinium (Cirencester) [3, 4, 6, 12]. The kiln was likely abandoned in the 3rd century AD [3, 4, 12]. The excavation also revealed a woman's grave dating from 226-336 AD and a pit containing deliberately deposited pottery, suggesting ritual practices [3, 4, 12].
This discovery offers valuable insights into the industrial importance of the settlement and Roman life in the agricultural landscape [3, 4, 5, 6]. The River Severn facilitated trade, transport, and access to natural resources, contributing to the prosperity of the region [3, 4].