The Cotswold Pagan Society:

Earth Healing day took place on Sunday 18th April, 2004; and was celebrated all over the country - initiated by the Pagan federation. As their Regional Coordinator for Gloucestershire, I decided to hold it in ancient site in the area. The venue for the Ceremony was the Roman Amphitheatre, situated to the South-West of Cirencester town centre.

The history of the site is quite interesting. In it's day it was one of the largest amphitheatres in Britain, with a capacity for over 8,000 people. It was built in the 1st half of the 2nd Century BC, on the site of an existing Roman quarry. It is oval in shape, with opposing gateways through which access could be gained to the arena and the seating area.

Excavation of the site has provided a few artifacts, which seem to be the result of causal loss. Items such as brooches, coins and personal property have been found, but nothing to indicate the nature of events.

It is believed that there would have been religious festivals, the execution of criminals, and sports and games. Other entertainments would have included cock-fighting, bear-baiting and animal hunts.

The amphitheatre fell out of use in the 4th Century AD. Evidence suggests it may have been used as a market and later a fortified retreat, following the collapse of the Roman Empire.

In the 13th Century t was enclosed by the abbot of Cirencester for use as a rabbit warren. It is known locally as the "Bull ring", which may refer to the bull-baiting that took place there in the 18th Century.

The rain poured down on the day, and the ceremony took place with 8 people huddled in a small circle in the middle of the amphitheatre with umbrellas held aloft!

After we had finished we decided to clear the litter from the site, as a gesture towards healing the Earth. we then adjourned to a near-by cafe to get out of the weather and have a social get-together before making our separate ways home.

Veronica Hammond

(For a listing of other events organised by the Cotswold Pagan Society - and links to further reviews - please see the Listings page.)