Archaeologists Discover Roman Villa With Mosaics in Wiltshire, England

Community volunteers have discovered what is believed to be the first significant high-status Roman villa in the Chalke Valley of south Wiltshire, England, during an archaeological dig led by Cardiff University. The excavation revealed a large Roman structure, offering new insights into the area’s ancient history.

The project, funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund, was part of the Chase & Chalke Landscape Partnership Scheme, managed by Cranborne Chase National Landscape and organized by Teffont Archaeology.

Over two weeks, more than 60 volunteers worked to uncover mosaics, painted wall plaster, and large stone buildings at the site.

Uncovering the Roman villa’s magnitude

Local metal detectorists first identified the site after discovering numerous Roman artifacts. They reported their findings to the Portable Antiquities Scheme at Salisbury Museum, prompting further investigation.

Dr. David Roberts of Cardiff University co-directed the project and described the villa as a groundbreaking discovery for the area. “We’re delighted to have discovered the first-known Roman villa in this part of south Wiltshire working with our local volunteers,” Roberts said.

The excavation revealed that the villa was over 35 meters long and included several additional buildings. These included a bathhouse, a multi-story barn, and a mysterious concrete-floored structure, which archaeologists believe may have been an outdoor pool.

The site’s high-quality mosaics, featuring intricate geometric patterns, likely reflected the cultural sophistication and wealth of the villa’s owners.

Collaboration with local landowners

Dr. Denise Wilding of Teffont Archaeology, who co-led the project, emphasized the discovery’s significance.  “The high-status objects from the site, particularly furnishings such as the painted wall plaster and columns, demonstrate the wealth and power of those living here.”

“These artefacts are especially significant due to the lack of recent excavations of high-status sites in this area.”

Wilding also expressed gratitude to the landowners for allowing the excavation. “We’re very grateful to the landowners of the site for allowing the excavation on their land,” she added.

Rob Lloyd, manager of Chase & Chalke, highlighted the impact of community involvement. “Over the summer we’ve worked with Teffont Archaeology to provide hundreds of free volunteering opportunities in archaeology at two projects, and have seen the immense difference these activities make to people’s wellbeing and engagement with their local heritage.”

Volunteers driving archaeological success

The project has created opportunities for volunteers to continue engaging with the site. The archaeological team will now analyze the artifacts and share their findings through local talks and presentations next year.

Volunteers will assist in processing the discoveries and participate in educational events hosted by Salisbury Museum, a project partner.

The findings mark a significant step in uncovering the ancient history of Chalke Valley, shedding light on the lives of its wealthy Roman inhabitants. Further analysis and community involvement promise to bring even more details to light.