Remarkable Roman Villa Discovered in Wiltshire’s Chalke Valley!
Archaeologists and local volunteers have uncovered a stunning Roman villa in the Chalke Valley, Wiltshire, marking a groundbreaking discovery for the region. This impressive find has shone a spotlight on a site of significant historical and architectural importance, offering a glimpse into the life of Roman elites in the area.
How It All Began
The journey to uncovering the villa began when local metal detectorists stumbled upon Roman artefacts and reported their findings to the Portable Antiquities Scheme at Salisbury Museum. This discovery set the wheels in motion for a two-week excavation in October, spearheaded by Teffont Archaeology in collaboration with Cardiff University. Generously funded by the National Heritage Lottery Fund as part of the Chase and Chalke Landscape Partnership Scheme, the dig brought together professionals and community volunteers in an exciting archaeological effort.
Photo Credit: Teffont Archaeology
What They Found
The centrepiece of the site is an expansive Roman villa complex stretching over 35 metres, surrounded by additional structures that reveal the villa’s luxurious nature. Among these are a substantial bathhouse, a multi-storey barn, and a concrete-floored structure believed to have served as an outdoor pool. Adorned with intricately designed mosaics, painted wall plaster, and elegant columns, the villa was undoubtedly a residence of wealth and influence, serving as the heart of a vast agricultural estate.
Dr. David Roberts, a senior lecturer in Roman archaeology at Cardiff University and co-director of the excavation, explained:
“We’re delighted to have discovered the first-known Roman villa in this part of south Wiltshire while working with our local volunteers. The site was likely the centre of a significant estate in the later Roman period, and its owners must have extracted a great deal of labour and surplus from the local farming communities to fund their luxury lifestyle.”
Photo Credit: Teffont Archaeology
Artefacts That Speak of Wealth
The artefacts uncovered further underline the villa’s opulence. High-status furnishings such as painted wall plaster and ornate columns tell the story of a family whose wealth and power dominated the surrounding area. Dr. Denise Wilding of Teffont Archaeology highlighted the rarity of such finds in the region, noting that they provide invaluable insights into Roman-era life and luxury.
“These artefacts are especially significant due to the lack of recent excavations of high-status sites in this area. We’re very grateful to the landowners for allowing the excavation on their land,” she said.
A Community Effort
The excavation was truly a community endeavour, with over 60 volunteers rolling up their sleeves to connect with the local heritage. Their efforts not only contributed to the success of the dig but also provided a unique hands-on experience of archaeology in action.
Looking ahead, the team plans to analyse the findings in greater detail and host local talks in the coming year to share their discoveries with the public.
This discovery has not only enriched our understanding of Roman Britain but also strengthened the link between the past and the present for those who took part in the excavation. As the story of the Chalke Valley villa unfolds, it’s a reminder of the rich layers of history waiting to be uncovered beneath our feet.