The Jewry Wall Museum in Leicester, UK has been unveiled before it opens on 26 July. Centred around the remains of a Roman bathhouse – one of the largest civic Roman ruins in the country – it combines 2nd-century archaeological findings with 21st-century technology to tell the story of daily life in Leicester 2,000 years ago.
Leicester City Council has fully refurbished a Grade II-listed former college, designed by modernist architect Trevor Dannatt and inspired by the ancient foundations of the nearby bath house, to serve as a modern space for the new attraction.
Bringing Roman stories to life
Sir Peter Soulsby, the mayor of Leicester City, says: “This magnificent new museum means that we can now shout proudly about our 2,000 years of history and Leicester’s place in Roman Britain.
“Thanks to archaeological discoveries and interactive technology, the Jewry Wall Museum can reveal the public and private lives of the residents of Ratae Corieltauvorum like never before, telling their stories in new and compelling ways.
“I hope it will become another must-see visitor attraction in our historic city and improve our understanding of Roman Leicester, while giving local people even more reason to be proud of their city’s long history.”
Upon arriving at the Jewry Wall Museum, visitors will start an engaging trip through Roman Leicester. They will meet ‘Marcellus,’ the son of a Roman soldier and a local woman, who will serve as their guide to the ancient city of Ratae Corieltauvorum.
Created by renowned British artist Scott Tetlow, Marcellus and the other characters will reconstruct a lively Roman Leicester street scene. Interactive displays, projections, and games will offer insights into daily life in the 2nd-century city.
Leicester, one of the UK‘s most archaeologically studied cities, houses an extensive collection of Roman artefacts. Over 100 items from Leicester and Leicestershire are displayed at the new museum. These include some of the UK’s most exceptional Roman mosaics and wall plasters, along with jewellery, pottery, bronzework, and coins.
Archaeology meets technology
Many of these items were discovered during excavations conducted by the University of Leicester Archaeological Services.
Professor Sarah Scott from the School of Archaeology and Ancient History at the University of Leicester, and director of the Heritage Hub, says:
“Both students and staff at the University of Leicester are excited to be involved in this pioneering project, sharing in-depth knowledge across a wide range of subjects – from clothing and hairstyles to language, religion and culture.
“Through our Roman Leicester website, a new guide to the Jewry Wall, learning programmes and public events, we are helping Leicester City Council to bring the city’s incredible Roman heritage to life for people of all ages. It is inspiring to see the Jewry Wall Museum sparking curiosity, creativity and collaboration at the heart of our city and region.”
Phil Hackett, general manager of Jewry Wall Museum – A Real Roman Experience, adds: “Jewry Wall isn’t just a museum – it’s a bold reimagining of how we tell Britain’s Roman story.
“By combining powerful archaeology, local discovery and world-class technology, we’ve created an experience that’s both deeply immersive and genuinely educational. We’re proud to bring Leicester’s Roman roots to life, not just for local people, but for regional, national and international audiences.”
See also: 15 of the best new museums for 2025
