Triumphant Rider: The Lancaster Roman cavalry tombstone

The county of Lancashire – and the city of Lancaster in particular – have a richer archaeological heritage than is often appreciated. This was most dramatically demonstrated in November 2005 with the surprise discovery near the canal bridge on the south side of Lancaster of a massive stone, bearing the image of a triumphant horseman and his fallen foe.

This was without doubt one of the most significant finds of recent years. But who was the horseman, could the many fragments ever be satisfactorily be reassembled, and what did this stunning object mean for our history?

To hope to answer these questions, and to put this artefact where it might be enjoyed by Lancastrians and visitors alike, would take the co-operative efforts of numerous museums, four universities, and the enthusiastic support of local people. This richly illustrated volume represents a first attempt – by archaeologists, classical historians, conservators and curators – to tell the stone’s story, and in doing so to unravel some of the mysteries surrounding Insus, son of Vodullus.

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