In this fantastic capture by Robert White, we see Hadrian’s Wall, a defensive fortification in Roman Britain, begun in AD 122 during the rule of emperor Hadrian. In addition to its military role, gates through the wall served as customs posts. A significant portion of the wall still exists and can be followed on foot along the Hadrian’s Wall Path. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Northern England and was made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. [source]
Hadrian’s Wall was 117.5 km (73.0 mi) long; its width and height were dependent on the construction materials that were available nearby. East of the River Irthing, the wall was made from squared stone and measured 3 metres (9.8 feet) wide and 5 to 6 metres (16 to 20 feet) high, while west of the river the wall was made from turf and measured 6 metres (20 feet) wide and 3.5 metres (11 feet) high. Construction of the wall is believed to have been largely completed in approximately six years. [source]
In an interview with SF Site, Game of Thrones author George R. R. Martin acknowledged that Hadrian’s Wall was the inspiration for The Wall in his best-selling series: A Song of Ice and Fire [source]
To see more photography from White, check out his Facebook page.
To visit Hadrian’s Wall check out the official tourist site.
