1,600-year-old Roman guardian spirit found beneath ancient fort in northern England

A 1,600-year-old sandstone carving of a Roman guardian spirit (genius) was discovered beneath the ramparts of Vindolanda fort in Northumberland, England.

The sculpture, which depicts a draped human figure in a niche, is believed to have protected the military outpost and blends Roman religious practices with local frontier traditions.

The find raises questions about why the carving was deliberately buried under the fort's defences, possibly as a ritual or protective measure.

Dr Andrew Birley, Director of Excavations at Vindolanda, described the discovery as exceptionally rare and significant for understanding soldiers' spiritual lives.