Richborough Roman Fort, originally called Rutupiae, marks where Emperor Claudius' army of 40,000 men invaded Britain in 43 AD, establishing a crucial military stronghold at this gateway to mainland Europe. The site evolved into a major port and supply base with civilian settlement, eventually hosting an amphitheatre and one of the empire's most impressive monumental arches. The impressive stone walls visible today date from the late 3rd century when the fort was rebuilt to defend against Saxon raiders. Managed by English Heritage, the site features well-preserved fort remains including the monumental gateway and walls, while the nearby amphitheatre survives as an earthwork, offering visitors a tangible connection to Roman Britain's formative years.
