In a small English village, archaeologists have made a fascinating discovery, unearthing a remarkable Roman villa complex on a housing development site. The findings offer a glimpse into the lifestyles and activities of ancient Romans in the region.

According to a press release, the villa complex is adorned with painted plaster and elaborate mosaics, showcasing the intricate craftsmanship of the time. Notably, a collection of tightly-coiled lead scrolls has been found, indicating the possibility of ritualistic or pilgrimage practices at the site.

Francesca Giarelli, the project officer for Red River Archaeology Group and the site's director, described the villa as a central hub in the area of Oxfordshire. The structure, presumed to have had multiple levels, spanned an expansive 1,000 square meters on the ground floor alone, making it likely visible from miles away.

The excavation, which has been ongoing for a year, has yielded a wealth of artifacts, including hundreds of coins, rings, brooches, mosaic tesserae, and painted plaster with floral motifs. These findings have allowed archaeologists to determine that the site was active from the 1st or 2nd century, persisting until the late 4th or early 5th century, indicating an extended period of Roman activity.

In addition to the villa complex, archaeologists also uncovered an aisled building, a grand structure erected after the original villa. This development suggests that the owners of the estate became wealthier over time, leading to the construction of a more impressive hall-like structure.

Giarelli explained that during Roman times, villas served as more than just residential dwellings; they functioned as small administrative centers responsible for maintaining roads, managing crops, and storing food products during times of instability. Even in the late Roman period, this particular villa continued to exhibit signs of human activity.

A significant discovery was the horse-headed buckle, dating back to 350-450 AD, indicating the presence of late Roman elites or individuals who desired an association with that era. However, archaeologists noted that such buckles could also be linked to early Anglo-Saxon burials.

Excavation work on the site began prior to the construction efforts of housing developers Barratt and David Wilson Homes. The discovery of potential archaeological remains during initial evaluation trenches prompted a full-scale investigation that began two months before the construction work and is still ongoing.

The ongoing excavation suggests that the site holds further mysteries to unravel. Giarelli mentioned that the whereabouts of the people associated with the villa have not been determined yet, but archaeologists suspect the presence of a burial somewhere within the site. Additionally, the discovery of artifacts like the lead scrolls indicates the possibility of an underground sanctuary yet to be uncovered.

The findings at this English village provide valuable insights into the lives and activities of the ancient Romans. As archaeologists continue their work, more discoveries are expected to shed light on the history and significance of this extraordinary Roman villa complex.