Archaeologists excavating the ancient Roman fort of Magna, located near Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland, England, have made a fascinating discovery: a remarkably preserved leather shoe measuring 32 cm (12.6 inches) from heel to toe. This size is comparable to a modern UK men’s size 13-14.

The shoe, affectionately named “Footius Maximus,” is thought to have belonged to a soldier of considerable size and is one of the largest Roman footwear pieces recorded within the Vindolanda Trust’s collection. Rachel Frame, a senior archaeologist on the project, noted that the size of the shoe has spurred conversations about who might have worn it.

The shoe was discovered in the fort’s defensive ditches, alongside several other artifacts that benefit from the anaerobic conditions of the site, which have preserved them remarkably well over the centuries. Frame explained that the shoe’s structure consists of multiple layers of leather, fastened together with thongs, stitching, and hobnails, which enhance its durability and traction.

One volunteer archaeologist expressed her excitement at finding such a personal item, emphasizing how it connects people to the past. The shoe’s dimensions generated comparisons to modern figures like actors Stephen Fry and Stephen Merchant, suggesting that the original owner may have been a centurion or heavy infantryman needing sturdy footwear for his military duties.

The fort at Magna, built around 80 AD, functioned as an important military outpost along the Stanegate Road, connecting two vital Roman routes. Although excavations have been less extensive than at nearby Vindolanda, a variety of artifacts including footwear, pottery, and wooden tent pegs have emerged, shedding light on daily life in the Roman garrison.

However, the preservation of these finds is jeopardized by rising temperatures and decreasing groundwater levels. Archaeologists are concerned that dry conditions may compromise future discoveries, emphasizing the need for continued excavation and protection of this historically rich site.