An archaeological dig along the A417 Missing Link has revealed a Roman settlement, showcasing fascinating finds from ancient history.
Gloucestershire: A recent archaeological dig along the A417 Missing Link has turned up some amazing finds. The project, featured on BBC Two’s Digging for Britain, revealed a Roman settlement that dates back centuries.
The Oxford Cotswold Archaeology team worked on this dig, covering a massive 40 hectares. They discovered nearly eight hectares of a Roman settlement, which is pretty cool!
Imagine a small town bustling with activity, right where Ermin Street Roman road used to be. The team found all sorts of Roman structures, wells, and even ovens. They also dug up 460 Roman coins and a bunch of pottery and animal bones.
Alex Thomson, the project manager, was thrilled with the results. He said they expected to find good stuff, but this was beyond what they imagined. It’s like uncovering a 2000-year-old service station!
The Romans invaded Britain way back in 43 AD, and this area was a key spot for their expansion. The settlement’s location suggests it was a busy stop for travelers on the Roman highway.
Jim Keyte from National Highways shared how exciting it is to reveal these findings. It’s a chance to connect with the past and share it with the community.
The episode featuring this dig aired on January 15, and it’s a great way to learn more about Gloucestershire’s rich history. After the show, the artifacts will be displayed in local museums, making history accessible to everyone.
Overall, this project isn’t just about building a road; it’s about honoring the past while paving the way for the future. The A417 Missing Link aims to ease traffic and support local growth, making life better for everyone in the area.
