Excavations at a civilian settlement (vicus) near the Roman fort of Vindolanda have revealed a rare, well-preserved shrine dedicated to the Lares Compitales, the deities of the crossroads. This find confirms that the Roman festival of Compitalia—a winter celebration where slaves and citizens celebrated together—was observed even on the furthest northern reaches of the Empire. The shrine contained small woolen effigies, known as maniae, which were traditionally hung during the festival to represent family members.
Archaeologists noted that the presence of this shrine in a multi-cultural frontier zone suggests that these festivals were vital for social cohesion among the diverse soldiers and traders living in the shadow of the wall. The discovery of charred bean and honey cake remains provides a rare look at the specific 'street food' associated with these ancient neighborhood block parties.