London: Museum of London

Roman Londinium comes alive in this museum built on the ancient city wall. Artifacts from the Roman port, amphorae from Mediterranean wine trade, and mosaics depicting Bacchus. The Thames was Rome's highway for wine; the legions stationed here demanded it.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Find the Sand That Soaked Gladiator Blood History · Free

   The original SAND from the arena floor — still there after 1,900 years. Romans spread sand (Latin: "arena") to soak up gladiator blood during combat. 7,000 spectators watched men die for entertainment here. The sand you're looking at absorbed that history at Guildhall Roman Amphitheatre (basement level of Guildhall Art Gallery, City of London). Free guided tours run Tues/Thurs/Fri/Sat/Sun at 12:15pm & 1:15pm (30-45 min). Digital projections show the full structure. Look down at the arena floor — the sand is preserved in situ.

   Backup: Self-guided visit any time during gallery hours. Interpretive panels explain the sand's significance.

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2. 2 Walk 5 Minutes to Where Romans Drank Wine Wine · Price: moderate

   You're now standing ON TOP of Roman Londinium — the City of London WAS the Roman city. Roman merchants traded wine 2,000 years ago at this exact intersection, importing Falernian, Caecuban, and other elite Roman wines through the Thames port. Walk 5-10 minutes from Guildhall to Oeno Group wine bar (near Bank tube station). Order any natural wine and ask the staff about "the Roman London connection" — Bank station is literally built on Roman ruins. Toast to 2,000 years of wine commerce at this exact spot.

   Backup: Terroirs wine bar (5 William IV St., Monument Station) is also on top of Roman London, closer to the ancient port area.

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3. 3 Decode Roman Wine Amphorae in the Museum History · Free · Optional

   Roman wine amphorae fragments from Mediterranean trade routes — these clay vessels held wine shipped from Italy, Spain, and Gaul to Londinium. The Thames was Rome's highway for wine — legions stationed here DEMANDED it. Look for the "Dressel 20" type (olive oil) vs wine amphorae, with stamps on handles that indicated origin and quality at the Museum of London. Romans tracked provenance obsessively. NOTE: Currently closed for relocation to new West Smithfield site, reopening 2026. When museum reopens, find the Roman gallery where amphorae are usually near port/trade exhibits.

   Backup: British Museum (Great Russell St) has extensive Roman Britain collection including amphorae — open now while Museum of London relocates.

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