Chester (Deva Victrix) – Quick Facts
Where
Chester, Cheshire Map & Website

When
- The legionary fortress for the 2nd Legion Adiutrix was established in the mid-70s AD by Governor of Britannia, Julius Frontinus.
- The 2nd Adiutrix was relocated to the continent around AD 88 and Deva was then garrisoned by the 20th Legion Valeria Victrix.
- The 20th Valeria Victrix was still stationed here in the 3rd century.
- The fortress was very large, 24.3 ha/60 acres, and able to house 5000 soldiers.
- The amphitheatre was first built in stone around AD 100.
- It went out of use 120s AD, while most of the soldiers were sent north to build Hadrian’s Wall.
- In the late 3rd century it was restored and was in use for several decades.
What Remains
- Only half the fortress amphitheatre is visible. It was capable of seating 7000 people.
- Foundation remains of the fort’s southeast corner watch tower.
- The Roman Gardens has several column fragments and lumps of carved building stones, as well as a reconstruction of a hypocaust heating system.
- There is a Roman section somewhat visible in the Medieval city wall.
- On Northgate Street there are two column bases from the legionary bath-house, a column base from the fort principia, and a gutter from the legionary barracks road.