The Romans in Gwent,Pope Linus a Gwentian? Julius Julianus, Aaron , The Vikings

The Romans formed a big part of the Early History of Gwent, particularly Caerleon (Castra Legionis) the Rome of Britannia. By the second century King Lucius invites more missionaries-Doctor Medwy-turns up with three others, which Pope Eleutherius called for. (See blog post on Michaelstone y Fedw http://www.maryinmonmouth.blogspot.com

Caerleon has its own Church with a holy Bishop Amphilbus, all of whom are killed in a presecution. We are not sure of which but the Tredunnock tombstone of St Julius Julianus, though buried in the Roman way was to theEast. The National Museum of Wales have authenticated it to the 2nd-3rd century AD so earlier than Diocletian's persecution. Julius and Aaron were both citizens of Caerleon, the whole church was massacred, but they are Roman citizens were allowed to die with swords in their hand. We learn Julius died on the Banks of the Usk next to where the Mansion used to be, the Mansion which was built with stone from his chapel, but seemed to have become disused, possibly because of endless Danish attacks which occurred when the Romans had left. It is even possible he may have been reburied at Tredunnock. Aaron was buried just over the first bridge on the Llanhennock Road in an area still called St Aarons. We then make a jump to the death of Alban, also mistimed by Bede and finally to the attacks of the Danes occurring periodically to the end of the Milennium. We still have to deal with the Saxons in Gwent, which we shall do tomorrow!

Feedback about Xmas or Christmas. Mediaeval pre protestant minced pies! vetoed by Oliver Cromwell so make some tonight!!Feedback about Mary in Monmouth and plea to make it include more of Wales.

'Watching you' Fiction by Lynnette Rees,Wild Rose Press, The Book Depository (Amazon)

'My Heart is restless' Theresa Jane Mycock http://www.myheartisrestless.blogspot.com