Hadrian's Wall Research Framework

Hadrian’s Wall is one of the best known ancient monuments in Britain and is recognised throughout the world as the most impressive frontier work surviving from the Roman Empire. Its international importance received formal recognition in 1987 when it was inscribed as a World Heritage Site (WHS).

This designation required the preparation of a Management Plan, and in the second version of this produced in 2002, it was recognised that further research was required to enhance understanding of the monument. The Hadrian’s Wall Research Framework is a response to this recognition of the importance research plays in the management of this internationally important site.

The Hadrian’s Wall Research Framework is a joint project between Archaeological Services Durham University and the Archaeology Section, Durham County Council. The project has a number of phases. The first phase of the Research Framework's preparation will be an assessment of the current state of the Hadrian's Wall resource. The second phase will consist of an analysis of the Resource Assessment and will identify the principal research themes and directions suggested by the assessment, including those prompted by gaps and areas of difficulty in the current knowledge base. The overall purpose will be to identify subjects and themes for potential future research set out as a Research Agenda. The third and final element of the Research Framework preparation will be the formulation of a Research Strategy.

Key documents relating to the management of the project are being posted on the Durham University website Hadrian's Wall Research Framework , as well as contributions to the eight thematic groups: Pre-Roman, The Stanegate, The Wall, The Forts, Trade & Exchange, Landscape & Environment, Life and Society, Post-Roman. Details about any events related to the Research Framework will also be made available.

For further information about the project please contact either:

Dr David Mason (County Archaeologist) or Matthew Symonds (Project Officer)
Archaeology Section
Adult and Community Services
Libraries, Learning and Culture
Durham County Council
The Rivergreen Centre
Aykley Heads
Durham
Co. Durham
DH1 5TS
Tel: 0191 370 8842/8843
Email: Archaeology

Archaeological Projects