Caerleon

Caerleon is a town and community in south Wales, within the city of Newport unitary authority. It lies on the eastern bank of the River Usk, about 4 miles (6 km) east of Newport city centre. Historically, Caerleon is part of the county of Monmouthshire and is known for its Roman era remains.

The site is renowned for extensive Roman remains. In the late 1st century, the Romans established a large fortress at Isca Augusta, home to Legio II Augusta. The fortress and its civilian settlement formed a major military and commercial centre in Roman Britain. Excavations have uncovered baths, a hospital (valetudinarium), granaries, and other military structures, along with substantial public buildings.

The Caerleon Amphitheatre is one of the largest in Roman Britain and remains among the best-preserved examples. The National Roman Legion Museum sits on the fortress site and houses artifacts and reconstructions related to the legionaries who lived there and to Isca Augusta more broadly.

After the Roman period, the site continued to be inhabited during the medieval era. St Cadoc's Church, dating from the 12th century, and other earthwork remains indicate continued settlement and fortification. The town later developed as a small market settlement and became part of the Newport area.

Today, Caerleon is a popular visiting centre for Roman history and archaeology, with archaeological sites, a museum, and heritage trails. It remains a distinct community within the Newport area, attracting visitors and serving as a residential and historic site along the River Usk.