Archaeologists have discovered a decorated mosaic believed to have been built nearly 2,000 years ago, along with several other Roman structures in northwestern England.
The decorated floor covering depicts stylized dolphins and several species of fish. It was located in a home likely owned by a wealthy and powerful family, according to a press release by Vianova Archaeology & Heritage Services, one of the organizations involved in the excavation.
The home was later remodeled, likely in the 3rd or 4th century, which helped ensure the mosaic’s survival after the room was filled with building debris to raise up the home’s interior.
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The mosaic was the first of such archeological treasures uncovered in 165 years at the Roman city of Wroxeter. Additional discoveries made by the archaeological team (some 30 people, 20 of which were students) in the unexplored area of Wroxeter during July and August included “a possible shrine or mausoleum, a monumental roadside civic building, and tantalizing hints of a nearby temple”.
The public building was located along one of the Roman city’s main streets facing the city’s forum-basilica (its marketplace and city hall). The building was 26 feet wide but at least 164 feet long. There were also “a number” of complete and broken pottery vessels found.
In addition to Vianova Archaeology & Heritage Services, the archaeological excavation involved the University of Birmingham and Albion Archaeology on behalf of the English Heritage Trust. It was directed by Vianova Archaeology’s Dr. Peter Guest, University of Birmingham archaeologist Dr. Roger White, and Albion Archaeology manager Mike Luke.
The news of the discovery was first reported by CNN.