Roads

Question 1

Layers of roads

Answer 1

1. Layer of stones
2. Crushed stones, pebbles and cement
3. Cement and crushed tiles
4. Paving stones cut to size to fit together
5. Kerb stones laid out

Question 2

First roads

Answer 2

Built by Roman legions in the first century C.E which had their own surveyors, engineers and the equipment they needed for this type of construction work
Roads served to link the most important military places in the new province of Britannia

Question 3

Construction details

Answer 3

Took the form of an embankment, raised above the level of the surrounding land with drainage ditches on either side
As straight as possible

Series of layers
1. Engineers called ‘agrimensores’ who marked the route
2. Cleared the path
3. Excavated and filled with stones or gravel to improve stability
4. Foundation called ‘statumen’ - layer of stones and gravel mixed with lime or cement to create a stable base (distribute worth of road and prevents water from seeping into the ground)
5. Pavement layers consisting of rudus (smaller stones/broken bricks mixed with mortar/lime), nucleus (concrete), and summa crusta (fitted stones or paving slabs)
6. Drainage through ditches, culverts and cambered surfaces
7. Sidewalks and curb stones for pedestrians
8. Marked by milestones and information given through signposts

Question 4

A cobbled surface

Answer 4

Commonplace in towns or areas of heavy use, covered with gravel

Question 5

Road width

Answer 5

10m or more

Question 6

Purpose and function

Answer 6

• Speed movement of troops
• Communication routes
• Provide supplies - commercial (movement of pottery, connect to inland ports)

Question 7

Roman Road example

Answer 7

Wailing Street - from London to Chester
Fosse Way - Exeter to Lincoln