Bringing together recent research, significant loans from across Europe and previously unseen archaeological discoveries from Scotland, Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire will tell new stories of Roman occupation and reshape our understanding of Scotland’s relationship with the Roman world.
Central to the exhibition are finds from a 2nd century AD Roman fort at Inveresk in East Lothian, which was home to the world’s most northerly Mithraeum (temple to the god Mithras). These include two spectacular altars from the temple, newly conserved and on display for the first time.
A thriving town surrounded the military base at Inveresk. This bustling community, ranging from soldiers and their families to traders, craftworkers and enslaved people, will be brought to life in the exhibition. Locals in this occupied land had to interact with these invading groups, and the exhibition will paint a vivid picture of their relationships, from bloodshed to diplomatic deals.
Roman Scotland: Life on the Edge of Empire runs from 14 November 2026 to 18 April 2027 at the National Museum of Scotland. Save on the admission cost by purchasing tickets in advance online.
