The Trimontium Trust seeks to develop an understanding of the Roman Iron Age across the south of Scotland and share this with the public.
We do this through a varied programme of archaeological work, our spring and autumn talk series, and various community outreach projects. Below is a highlight of some of the work we have been involved in over recent years.
Battle for Burnswark
With the help of National Lottery Heritage Fund, in 2016 the Trimontium Trust has been re-investigating the actions of the Roman army at the controversial site of Burnswark Hill in Dumfriesshire.
The site consists of two still impressive Roman camps which flank an 18 acre native hillfort on the summit of the hill which commands the northern aspect of the Solway Plain.
Previous interpretations led early investigators to suggest the site was a siege complex but in the 1960s this was rejected in favour of a non-conflict scenario. Latterly, following excavations in the late 60s and early 70s, this had developed into a full-blown Roman training camp hypothesis. This hypothesis was not universally accepted and more work was recommended by ScARF (Scottish Archaeological Research Framework).
The Future
Following the completion our hugely successful renovation project in 2021, we are now working on phase two of our redevelopment. This will see the creation of HALO (Heritage and Landscape Observatory), a purpose-built learning hub at the back of the existing museum. Here we will run workshops for the public and for education groups. We aim to better understand the Roman Iron Age landscape of the south of Scotland and communicate this to the public using innovative digital technologies – creating a hub where heritage is understood and shared by all.
To help achieve this project, please consider supporting us today – a donation, no matter the size, will make a significant difference to our future.
