Hidden for Centuries: French Archaeologists Unearth Opulent Roman Villa With Secret Heated Floors and Lavish Baths
An Ancient Structure Discovered In 1966 Proves To Be Just One Small Part Of A Much Larger Complex
INRAPThe villa complex spans a whopping 43,000 square feet, making it one of the largest ever found in France.
In 1966, workers digging out a gravel pit came across the remains of an ancient home that measured around 7,500 square feet — a lavish dwelling to be sure, but nothing compared to what would eventually be discovered. Various details, according to a statement from INRAP, indicated that it was occupied from the first through fourth centuries C.E., not long before the fall of Rome. Meanwhile, details such as mosaics and underfloor heating indicate that the structure belonged to wealthy elite.
When archaeologists recently uncovered the full complex measuring 43,055 square feet, it provided new insight into the purpose of the structure that was unearthed 60 years ago. It is now assumed that the 1966 discovery was a secondary wing of the much larger villa complex, which included a residential sector known as pars urbana and an agricultural part known as pars rustica.
INRAPAn aerial view of the private baths unearthed at the complex.
The entire complex was surrounded by a perimeter wall, with a quadrangular basin to the north and a small fountain to the south. The eastern wing also contains thermal baths, and the complex is filled with various reception rooms, work areas, and what seems to be a kitchen.
Researchers said they believe that another large quadrangular space along the western boundary might have been added at the same time as the structure found in 1966. This would indicate two separate stages of construction — one for the larger complex, another for the secondary structures. Further research, however, would be required to confirm this.
Post Comment