It was on 13 September in 2010 when a full Roman suit of armour (along with weapons) was discovered during an archaeological dig at the Roman fortress of Caerleon (Caerleon, Newport).
What Was Discovered?
Despite being made from iron, the suit was discovered in surprisingly good condition. Leader of the dig in 2010, Cardiff University’s senior lecturer in Roman archaeology, Dr Peter Guest, revealed that the full suit was only the “third or fourth” to be found in the UK, as well as the first to be found in Cymru, adding that its discovery was “very important for the study of Roman Britain.”
In AD 75, the Romans established a fortress at Caerleon, originally named Isca Augusta, as a base for the Second Augustan Legion – Legio II Augusta. The town flourished as a significant military and administrative center, featuring an amphitheater, bathhouses, and a legionary fortress. The amphitheater is believed to have been capable of accommodating around 6,000 spectators and was used for gladiatorial contests and other public events.
More from Welsh Histories
Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories Magazine. Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.
DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – September 2025
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.

