Rare Roman villa with stunning mosaic uncovered beneath Devon farmland
Exciting archaeological discoveries reveal historical insights
Archaeologists have uncovered a rare Roman villa with a stunning polychrome mosaic beneath farmland in Devon.
The mosaic features an intricate design with thousands of red, white, and dark blue/grey cubes, originally installed in the fourth century A.D.
The site, located between the villages of Halberton and Sampford Peverell, also led to the discovery of an elaborate bathhouse and various artefacts.
The University of Exeter and Cotswold Archaeology led the two-month excavation as part of the SHARE (Saving Halberton’s Ancient Roman Environment) project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Dr Susan Greaney, project lead from the University of Exeter, said the villa offers significant insights into the Romanisation of Devon, highlighting the wealth and high standing of its former occupants.
The uncovered mosaic is set to be conserved and displayed at the Tiverton Museum of Mid-Devon Life alongside other recovered artefacts.
Devon County Council’s Bill Horner emphasised the mosaic’s significance as the most westerly example found in Roman Britain.
Numerous items, including an intaglio, glass ornament, copper alloy bangle, and silver-plated spoon, were among the significant finds.
The excavation involved community volunteers, 65 archaeology students, and professionals.
Future digs will focus on the wider estate, presenting further opportunities for community involvement.
Councillor Jacqi Hodgson highlighted the project as a unique chance for local participation in uncovering Devon’s Roman past.
She explained: “This has been a once-in-a-lifetime chance for local people to get involved in a groundbreaking excavation of a Roman villa.
“Opportunities like this are incredibly rare, and what makes this project even more special is that the public has been part of the story from the start — from the first discoveries through to the work that has helped confirm the importance of the site.
"Thanks to National Lottery players, local volunteers, schools and community groups have helped uncover and will protect an extraordinary piece of Devon’s Roman past.”
Project Officer Dan Sausins praised the collaboration among archaeologists, volunteers, and students, and said: “This excavation is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when professional archaeologists, community volunteers, university staff and students work together.
"The mosaic is naturally the standout discovery, but the metal artefacts recovered have also been outstanding and are a great advert for responsible metal-detecting, with detectorist John Hill – who originally identified this site – a key part of the success.
"It's been a real pleasure to lead this excavation and share
These discoveries are transforming understanding of Devon’s Roman history.
Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, added: "These exciting discoveries are transforming our understanding of Devon’s Roman past.
"Thanks to National Lottery players, the project is uncovering nationally significant heritage while giving local communities and young people the chance to play a part in its discovery and learn new skills along the way.
"This once-in-a-lifetime archaeological journey is helping to protect and share these amazing stories for generations to come.”