Hadrian’s Wall is a part of queer history – here’s why
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In a recent email marking the end of LGBTQ+ History Month in February, the English Heritage charity made a groundbreaking revelation about Hadrian’s Wall, a 1,900-year-old landmark in the UK. The charity highlighted the LGBTQ+ links to the famous Roman structure, shedding light on its connection to England’s queer history.
Emperor Hadrian, who commissioned the construction of Hadrian’s Wall, was known to have had several gay relationships while being married to his wife, Sabina Augusta. One of the most notable relationships was with a young Greek man named Antinous, who accompanied Hadrian on a long tour and visit to Egypt. Tragically, Antinous drowned in the River Nile in AD130, leading Hadrian to openly grieve for him and have him “worshipped as a god”. In honor of Antinous, Hadrian also founded a new city named Antinoöpolis near the spot where he died.
English Heritage emphasized the importance of understanding Hadrian’s background to truly appreciate the significance of Hadrian’s Wall. The Roman emperor’s life, career, and the historical context of his time all contribute to the rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ history associated with the iconic landmark.
Despite some backlash from individuals who took offense at the LGBTQ+ connection to Hadrian’s Wall, Professor Frank Furedi criticized English Heritage for trying to appear “hyper trendy” and accused the charity of “reading history backwards”. However, the evidence of Hadrian’s sexual relationships with men has been well-documented for years, with museum exhibits dedicated to celebrating the love between him and Antinous.
National Museums Liverpool even described Hadrian and Antinous as “the most famous homosexual couple in Roman history”, highlighting the profound impact of their relationship on ancient society. While modern classifications may label individuals like Emperor Hadrian as bisexual, English Heritage explained that the Romans did not define sexuality in such terms. It was common for men during that era to have sexual relationships with other men alongside their marriages.
The revelation of Hadrian’s Wall as a part of queer history challenges traditional narratives and expands our understanding of ancient civilizations. By acknowledging and celebrating LGBTQ+ individuals like Emperor Hadrian and Antinous, we honor their contributions to history and recognize the diversity of human experiences throughout time.
PinkNews reached out to English Heritage for further comment on this significant discovery. As society continues to evolve and embrace diverse perspectives, it is essential to recognize and appreciate the LGBTQ+ history embedded in historical landmarks like Hadrian’s Wall.
In conclusion, Hadrian’s Wall stands not only as a physical barrier but also as a symbol of inclusivity and acceptance. The LGBTQ+ connections to this ancient monument remind us of the rich tapestry of human experiences that have shaped our world. As we reflect on the legacy of Emperor Hadrian and his relationships, we are reminded of the enduring power of love and compassion throughout history.
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