From Stone to Studs: Exploring the similarities between Romano-British structures and LEGO® Brick constructions
When you think of Roman0-British architecture, you might picture towering columns, grand amphitheatres, or intricate mosaic floors—like our own stunning Orpheus Mosaic, discovered at Barton Farm, just outside of Cirencester 200 years ago. But did you know that Roman builders had more in common with modern LEGO® enthusiasts than you might expect?
As we launch our Brickus Orpheus trail next week, we’re celebrating not only mythology and creativity, but also the clever engineering behind both ancient buildings and the famous plastic bricks.
A System of Blocks
Roman builders were masters of modular thinking. Whether constructing a fort or a villa, they used standardized materials: clay bricks, stone blocks, tiles, and columns to build their impressive structures. At the time of their invasion of Britain, they brought over much more durable building standards, forgoing the typical wood and straw builds of the Celtic tribes that came before them for mighty stone structures that would last a millennia (or more). Like LEGO® pieces, each element had a shape, purpose, and place—and it all had to fit together just right.
A Roman wall wasn’t just a pile of hastily thrown together rocks. It had a plan, a pattern, and sometimes even hidden reinforcements. Today, when you click two LEGO® bricks together, you’re using the same basic idea: small, repeatable units that combine to make something much bigger.
Remains of the Roman perimeter wall in the Abbey Grounds Park here in Cirencester
Design Meets Durability
Just as LEGO® structures can range from simple houses to soaring castles, Roman buildings were both functional and beautiful. They had to withstand the constantly changing British weather whilst keeping their inhabitants protected and comfortable. Romans were the first for the widespread use of concrete, experimented with arches and domes, and used geometry to create perfectly balanced spaces that can still be found today. In a way, LEGO® invites young minds to think like Roman engineers. To build well, you need vision, planning, creativity—and a healthy supply of trial and error.
It wasn’t just Roman structures that followed these simple construction methods though. A glance at the top of some of the stones at Stonehenge show how a technique not to dissimilar to the design of LEGO® bricks being used to strengthen the bonds of the of the amazing ancient structure.
Diagram showing the joints used in the outer sarsen circle© Historic England (illustration by Peter Dunn)
Brickus Orpheus: A New Way to Explore the Ancient World
Our Brickus Orpheus LEGO® brick trail, running from April 15 to November 2, brings ancient mythology to life in a colourful, creative way. Follow the trail through the museum and meet gods, goddesses, monsters, and heroes—all sculpted from LEGO® bricks and inspired by the legendary Orpheus Mosaic.
It’s a celebration of storytelling, building, and imagination—where Roman Mythological history meets modern creativity. The National Lottery Heritage Funded project is a partnership between the Corinium Museum, The Barn Theatre and New Brewery Arts.
INFO:
🧱 Brickus Orpheus runs April 15 – November 2, 2025.
🎟️ Trail cost: £2.50
📍 Find out more: Brickus Orpheus Event Page
