Go Roman 2.1

This updated application offers insights into the historical significance of Bar Hill fort, one of several Roman military installations constructed along the Antonine Wall in Scotland approximately 2,000 years ago.

The app features several interactive components designed to enhance learning and engagement:

• Play Game — Engage with an interactive simulation as either Julius, an elite Roman archer, or Verecunda, a recently enslaved girl. This feature provides a narrative-driven experience of daily life at the fort and tasks to be completed. Collect hidden coins throughout the gameplay to uncover stories of the inhabitants and their environment.
• Explore Bar Hill Fort in 3D — Utilize advanced interactive 3D models to independently examine a digital reconstruction of the site at your own pace.
• Examine 3D Artefacts — Investigate detailed 3D representations of archaeological artefacts excavated from Bar Hill and surrounding areas along the Antonine Wall. Learn about their functions, origins, and manufacturing processes.

About the Antonine Wall

The Antonine Wall marked the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire nearly two millennia ago. Stretching approximately 60 kilometers (40 Roman miles) from Bo’ness near the Firth of Forth to Old Kilpatrick on the River Clyde, it is recognized as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site designated under the Frontiers of the Roman Empire. Notably, contrary to initial assumptions, the wall was constructed using turf with a ditch in front rather than stone, supplemented by strategic forts and fortlets housing Roman troops. For further information, visit: https://antoninewall.org/

About Digital Documentation

The virtual reconstruction of Bar Hill fort was generated through aerial LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), which captures detailed three-dimensional landscape data via aerial surveys. This technology provided foundational ground plans.

Terrestrial laser scanning supplemented this data by recording archaeological features on-site. This process involves a tripod-mounted laser scanner emitting millions of laser pulses per second to create a precise point cloud that accurately models surface geometries.

The 3D models of Roman artefacts were produced through photogrammetry—an imaging technique that converts numerous overlapping photographs into realistic 3D textures and models, offering detailed visual representations of these items.

Feedback and Further Information

We value user input for continuous improvement of our digital offerings. If you have ideas or suggestions regarding this app, please contact us at: [email protected]

If you appreciate this resource, please consider rating it in the app store to support ongoing development.

About This App

This application was initially developed by Historic Environment Scotland in collaboration with The Glasgow School of Art and was updated in 2022 by Grizzle and Tan. © Historic Environment Scotland.