Archaeologists have unearthed a “remarkable” Roman villa complex at Brookside Meadows in the village of Grove, Oxfordshire, England. The site, rich in history and artifacts, was discovered during preparations for a housing development by Barratt and David Wilson Homes.

A drone image of the ancient Roman villa complex. Credit: Red River Archaeology Group / SUMO GeoSurveys

The villa, described as “remarkable” by experts, showcases intricate designs and structures typical of Roman architecture, including painted plaster, mosaic floors, and aisled buildings adorned with ornate details. The site, spanning over 1,000 square meters on the ground floor alone, is believed to have served as a hub of activity from the Bronze Age through the late Roman period.

“The sheer size of the buildings that still survive and the richness of goods recovered suggest this was a dominant feature in the locality, if not the wider landscape,” said Louis Stafford, Red River Archaeology senior project manager.

The villa likely functioned as more than just a residential dwelling, serving as a small administrative center responsible for various tasks such as road maintenance and crop planning.

Miniature votive axes were likely used as part of an ancient ritual. Credit: Red River Archaeology Group

Among the plethora of artifacts discovered at the site are miniature axes, coins, jewelry, and a horse-headed belt buckle dating back to CE 350-450. Researchers suggest that the buckle may have belonged to a member of the Roman military or someone aspiring to such status, reflecting a form of “military chic.”

The discovery of тιԍнтly coiled lead scrolls, reminiscent of Roman “curse tablets,” hints at ritualistic or pilgrimage activities that may have taken place at the site. This speculation is supported by the presence of miniature votive axes, commonly used as offerings to the gods in Roman culture, suggesting a religious or ceremonial aspect to the villa’s history.

Excavations at Brookside Meadows are ongoing, with archaeologists continuing to uncover new insights into the site’s past. Despite the historical significance of the villa complex, plans for housing development are proceeding in collaboration with archaeologists to ensure the preservation and documentation of this important piece of local heritage.

Campbell Gregg, managing director for Barratt and David Wilson Homes Southern, expressed the company’s commitment to preserving local history, stating that working with the Red River Archaeology Group has helped “develop the local historical understanding and heritage.”