THE second Roman invasion was taking place in York today at the launch of the first Roman Festival in the city.

The vibrant two-day festival aims to highlight the huge influence the Romans had, and left, on York - or Eboracum.

During the festival Constantine, the only Roman emperor to be crowned outside Rome, will play a major role.

Historians believe he was proclaimed emperor on July 25, 306, at a site close to York Minster - an event being re-enacted at the Minster today at 3pm.

Other events include a Roman market, held over both days in Barley Hall, off Stonegate; dancers and wrestlers at St Sampson's Square at noon today or 12.30pm tomorrow; a comparison of Romans and Vikings at St Sampson's Square at 2.30pm today, and a display of Roman themes at the Archaeological Resource Centre, St Saviourgate.

The events continue at St Sampson's Square today until 7pm.

Tomorrow's events include a display of military skill from Emperor Constantine's troops at St Sampson's Square at noon; a talk on the Constantine Connection at the upper room, Mana Restaurant, St Sampson's Square, at 1.30pm; and a talk on Roman bathing habits at St Sampson's Square at 2.30pm.

During the weekend Roman-themed films will be showing at City Screen, as well as walks and Roman river cruises.

Members of the York Shakespeare Project were performing a specially-written short play today, based on excerpts from Julius Caesar and woven into a modern play relating elements of Roman history connected to York.

The group previewed its light-hearted and entertaining play on Thursday during the city's regular late-night shopping evening. For more details on the festival, which is supported by City of York Council and the York Tourism Bureau, visit the What's On section of www.thisisyork.co.uk.

Updated: 09:26 Saturday, July 26, 2003