2,000-Year-Old Roman Mosaic Discovered in Shropshire

ancient mosaicPhoto byAndy FluetonUnsplash

A 2,000-year-old mosaic has been uncovered during recent excavations at Wroxeter Roman City in Shropshire, England. The mosaic, featuring vibrant depictions of dolphins and fish, was discovered by archaeologists searching for the main civic temple in the area. Win Scutt, a representative from English Heritage, the organization managing the site said:

Our excavations aimed to uncover the temple's walls, but finding this beautifully intact mosaic was a stunning surprise. It's always an astonishing moment when you uncover a fragment of beauty hidden just below the ground.

Dating back to the early 2nd century, the mosaic is believed to have been commissioned by a wealthy and influential individual, likely for a dining room designed to impress guests. The discovery of this mosaic, a significant piece to the puzzle of Wroxeter's rich history, which includes a civic bathhouse, market place, county hall, and more than 200 houses, provides a deeper understanding of the city's past.

In addition to the mosaic, the excavation team also found coins, pottery, and a painted plaster wall, providing further insights into the daily life and architectural practices of the time. Although the mosaic was reburied for its protection, this process is a standard practice in archaeology to ensure the preservation of such delicate artifacts. Its discovery has reignited interest in the ancient city, which was once the fourth largest in Roman Britain.

Wroxeter, originally known as Viroconium Cornoviorum, was established in the 90s AD and remains one of the most well-preserved Roman sites in the country. The excavation was a joint endeavor between English Heritage, the University of Birmingham, Vianova Archaeology, and Albion Archaeology, with ongoing investigations continuing to illuminate the city's storied past, inviting all to be part of this journey.