Fragment of a Chalice from near Vindolanda

Fragment of a Chalice from near Vindolanda

This is a fragment from a chalice found from excavations at a 6th Century church near Vindolanda, a Roman Fort close to Hadrian’s wall. The chalice itself dates to around the 5th century. The fragment is covered in graffiti, which has a negative connotation today, but was a wide practice. Some of the symbols include crosses, fish, and chi-ros. Since it was buried below the church, it remained protected for many years. The symbols provide evidence of how early Christian worship continued in Britain even after the fall of the Roman Empire.