From Burnswark, Dumfriesshire
000-100-038-938-C © National Museums Scotland |
|
Ballista balls
Ballista balls were placed at the end of a mechanised swing, which was then wound back and released, sending the balls flying. These eleven ballista balls of red sandstone were found at the site of the Roman fort of Burnswark in Dumfriesshire.
Ballista ball of red sandstone, from Birrenswark
The fort at Burnswark appears to have been used as a training centre for Roman auxiliaries, especially for those using bows, slings and ballista.