ABSTRACT
It is unlikely that the Romans had at first any clear ideas for the foundation in Britain of a provincial capital of a type which later emerged at London. The term 'provincial capital' is anachronistic, but convenient, in the present context. It means, in effect, the centre where the governor resided and where other aspects of the provincial administration were often sited. But for most of the first century the governors of Britain were heavily engaged on campaigns. By the time London became the provincial capital, therefore, it had recovered from the Boudiccan rebellion, and had probably acquired more dignity in addition to prosperity. It is worth considering the choice of Cirencester and Lincoln as provincial capitals. London is somewhat exceptional among Roman towns in having at least one, and possibly more, sizeable streams flowing through its centre. As in most towns in Britain, evidence tor the survival of civilized life after the collapse of the central administration is scarce.
