Roman column in Minster Yard
📍 11 Minster Yard, York YO1 7HH, UK
About Roman column in Minster Yard
The Roman column in Minster Yard offers a compelling glimpse into York's ancient past, standing as a significant historical landmark just south of the magnificent York Minster. This impressive Roman artefact once formed part of the grand basilica, the headquarters of the formidable Sixth Legion, located within the walls of the Roman fortress of Eboracum. Discovered during excavations beneath the Minster in 1969, its presence provides a tangible link to the city's foundational history.
Originally one of many such columns supporting the basilica's roof, this surviving piece tells a story of Roman engineering and the city's strategic importance. Visitors frequently highlight its fascinating origins and the informative plaque that details its journey from buried relic to public display. It's highly rated by visitors, achieving 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 160 reviews, who appreciate its historical value as part of York's rich heritage.
Visiting Information
The Roman column is freely accessible to the public, open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it easy to visit at any time. It features a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that everyone can appreciate this remarkable piece of Roman history. Payment options are not applicable for this outdoor monument.
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📍 11 Minster Yard, York YO1 7HH, UK
from 164 reviews
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Showing 5 of 164 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 6 February 2026.
An interesting Roman era artefact that stands not far from it's original location near York Minster. The attached plaque gives some of the background to the column's origins and how it comes to be situated in Minster Yard. Just one of the wealth of heritage artefacts located across the City of York but one that is worth visiting when in the vicinity of the Minster.
The column is one of sixteen similar columns that supported the roof of the basilica, or headquarters of Eboracum. The column was discovered buried under the tower of York Minster in 1969, broken and lying on its side. The Dean of York Minster gave the column to the City of York to commemorate the 1900th anniversary of the city's founding in AD 71. It was re-erected in its present location in 1971.
Located just to the south of York Minster, this Roman column once stood within the great hall of the headquarters of the Sixth Legion, inside the walls of the Roman fortress. It was found during excavations of the Minster in 1969, still lying where it had fallen.
York Minsteright Show, viewed from the Roman Column. On until 23rd Feb 23. A great free show. Go and see whilst you can. 6pm till 9pm I think.
A very photogenic piece of local history set in the yard outside the front of the amazing York Minster. The free guided Tour of the City stops here and they give an interesting talk on the Column. It's quite good because there is a lot of statues to see in the immediate vicinity of this one as well. Lots to learn and photograph.