The Chedworth Romain villa mosaic – Adding some light to the Dark Ages

Stephen Liddell

Last week news was released on recent research that might change the way people think 6th century Britain following the discover by archaeologists of Britain’s first known 5th-Century mosaic at a Roman villa in Gloucestershire.

Radiocarbon dating revealed a mosaic at Chedworth was designed and created in the middle of that century.  This shows sophisticated life continued within the mansion long after Britain ceased to be part of the Roman Empire.

Previously, it had been believed all Roman towns and villas were abandoned and fell into decay at the end of the 4th Century.  However, charcoal and bone at Chedworth provided radiocarbon dates that show the recently-discovered mosaic must have been created after 424 AD.

The Chedworth Roman Villa Mosaic – Photo by National Trust

Chedworth Roman Villa is one of the largest in the country and one of the best preserved, with 35 exposed rooms and significant features including…

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