Leaving your Mark

The introduction of the Roman alphabet into Wales is a key ‘turning point’ in the transition from prehistory to history.

In this temoprary display evidence of writing, both official and by ordinary people, in Roman Wales is set in the wider picture of the use of writing more generally in the Roman World.

The origins of the Roman alphabet and the legacy of its introduction – it is used today for writing both Welsh and English – is also explored.

The continued use of Latin long after the end of Roman rule can easily be charted in the early medieval inscribed stones and in the Natural History galleries where it forms the basis for the scientific names of animals and plants.

Photo:

Lead bread stamp from Caerleon