Title: Comparative Study: Roman Skeletal Remains and Roman Shoes of Londinium

title: A Closer Look at Ancient Roman Shoes: Technology and Archaeological Discoveries Shed Light on Footwear in Ancient Londinium

Introduction:

In the bustling city of Londinium, two millennia ago, Roman Londoners walked the streets adorned in fashionable leather shoes. These shoes not only exhibited the craftsmanship of the time but also offered insights into the daily lives and physical characteristics of the people who wore them. Today, we delve into the world of ancient Roman footwear, exploring the preservation techniques used to safeguard these artefacts, the intriguing phenomenon of shrinking leather, and the potential for a comparative study between skeletal remains and shoes.

Preserving the Leather Sole:

One of the remarkable objects housed at the London Archaeological Archive and Research Center (LAARC) is a Roman leather shoe, randomly selected from shelf number 876. This artifact provides a glimpse into the heart of Londinium during the Roman era. Preservation of such shoes is a delicate process, as exposure to external elements can result in rapid drying and shrinkage of the leather.

Fortunately, the Museum of London's conservation department possesses a remarkable piece of machinery known as a freeze-dryer. Through the process of sublimation, this magical device leaves leather objects in a stable condition, ensuring their preservation for generations to come. The use of freeze-drying has revolutionized the field of archaeology, allowing us to appreciate the intricacies of footwear worn centuries ago.

The Mystery of Shrinking Roman Shoes:

Observations made by archaeologists reveal a fascinating aspect of ancient Roman shoes—they seem unusually small. While one might assume that this is a result of leather shrinking over two millennia in the ground, the freeze-drying process plays a minimal role in contributing to this phenomenon. However, there is much to learn from further investigation.

Roman Skeletal Remains: Unveiling the Secret of Foot Sizes:

To gain a deeper understanding of shoe sizes among Roman Londoners, a comparative study could be conducted between the many Roman skeletal remains held at the museums and the preserved shoes. By analyzing the bones of individuals who once walked the streets of Londinium, researchers can draw correlations between foot sizes and the shoes discovered.

This comparative study has the potential to shed light on the physical characteristics of Roman Londoners, allowing us to explore questions such as whether smaller feet were a common trait among the population or if shoe sizes varied significantly across different social classes. Additionally, the exploration of footwear in conjunction with skeletal remains may provide insights into the health and mobility of ancient Romans.

Conclusion:

As we continue to unearth the remains of ancient civilizations, the importance of preserving artifacts like Roman leather shoes becomes evident. By utilizing advanced technologies, such as freeze-drying, we can halt the decay and shrinkage of these fragile objects, ensuring their longevity for future generations. The examination of Roman footwear not only offers a glimpse into the fashion and craftsmanship of the time but also provides avenues for further research and exploration into the lives of the people who wore them. Through comparative studies with skeletal remains, we strive to unlock the secrets of ancient Londinium, gaining insights into foot sizes, physical characteristics, and societal nuances of a bygone era.