textures as you walk along the outer perimeter. History The Saxon Shore forts, including Portus Adurni, were built during the mid to late 3rd century amid increased instability in north-eastern Gaul and the Rhineland, eventually leading to the Roman evacuation of that area. The forts were intended to maintain control over the region, and monitor shipping and trade, as well as defending against raids from across the English Channel. These forts became defensive holding points for the rebel Carausius, who in 285 was given the task of solving the Saxon piracy problem in the English Channel. When Carausius was charged with keeping the pirates' booty for himself, he retreated to Britain and proclaimed himself Emperor. The revolt went on for almost 10 years while other Roman generals tried and failed to dislodge him, until he was eventually murdered by Allectus, one of his aides, in 293, and Britain was finally taken back by 296. We do not know who built Portus Adurni. While some of the Saxon Shore forts were built under previous commanders and emperors, some were built by Carausius during his revolt. Evidence suggests that Portus Adurni was built during the time of Carausius. Many of the coins uncovered at the site were minted by Carausius as emperor during his revolt. Anglo-Saxon high-status residence Even after the departure of the Roman Army Portus Adurni's location and strong walls made it attractive as a fortress. The fort became an Anglo-Saxon high-status residence with great hall and tower. Later the Roman gateways were rebuilt as well. Portchester is listed as one of thirty-three fortified burhs in the Burghal Hidage, believed to date from the reign of Edward the Elder, who reigned from 899 to 924 AD. Later history The circuit walls of the fort became the outer bailey wall of a Norman castle and later medieval palace. It was used as a gaol during the Napoleonic Wars. Its exceptional condition can therefore be attributed to the fact that, despite short periods of abandonment and longer periods of neglect, the fort was occupied for almost sixteen centuries. The site is owned by the Southwick Estate but managed by English Heritage, and is open to visitors throughout the year. References Notes Bibliography Bunson, Matthew. Encyclopedia of the Roman Empire. 1994. Bushe-Fox, J. P. Some Notes on Roman Coast Defences.The Journal of Roman Studies Vol. 22(1932): 60-72. Hornblower, Simon, and Antony Spawforth. Carausius,