Could you survive the brutal reality of guarding Rome's northern frontier?

History · Published 30 September 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: History Hit presenters Luke Tomes and Louee Dessent join historian Dr. Simon Elliott for a march along Hadrian's Wall. They explore how life on this 73-mile barrier varied by rank and role, revealing why it was considered one of the Roman Empire's most demanding postings.

Commissioned by Emperor Hadrian, construction of the 73-mile wall began shortly after his accession in 117 AD. By 122 AD, Hadrian arrived in Britain to inspect the progress of this massive fortification, which stretched between the Irish and North Seas. While its primary purpose remains a subject of intense historical debate—ranging from a military defense to a customs barrier or vanity project—the reality of daily life for those stationed there was stark.

Although three legions initially built the wall with the help of forced local labor, the day-to-day defense fell to roughly 9,000 auxiliary troops. These soldiers were recruited from across the empire, including regions as diverse as Syria, North Africa, and Romania. The experience of these men depended heavily on their specific rank and duties, making the frontier a challenging environment for any soldier.

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