Roman villa nearly intact after 1,000 years under park

British scientists have discovered the remains of three almost intact Roman villas beneath a park in the city centre.

Archaeologists excavating the park's grounds have confirmed the discovery of three ancient Roman villas. Photo: PA.

Ground-penetrating radar images showing two large structures and an unusually shaped house dating back more than 1,000 years and worth millions of dollars were released by the civil authority in Chichester district, west Sussex, England, on January 26, according to BBC.

James Kenny, an archaeologist at Chichester Council, said it was rare to find Roman structures that had survived so long and so intact. "What is remarkable about this discovery is that it has survived for over 1,000 years in a densely populated city. The only reason they have survived is because they are under a parkland that has not been built over," Kenny said.

Geophysicist David Staveley discovered the ancient structure using radar equipment with the consent of Kenny, who felt Chichester Park was the most likely place to find the ruins. After the scans were back, Kenny and the local archaeological society dug up a small corner of Priory Park and confirmed the discovery, which left experts stunned.

Three Roman villas remain almost intact after more than 1,000 years. Photo: PA.

"This site would have been one of the most prosperous parts of the Roman city, with houses that would be worth millions of dollars today. Two houses have walled rooms, set around a courtyard or forecourt. There is also a large, long building with a rounded corner. We are very curious to find out what this is," Kenny shared.

Experts believe the houses originally stood on a street that was demolished after a reservoir was built in the park during World War II. Scans also revealed another Roman-era street to the east beneath the park.

The council is seeking funding to carry out a more thorough excavation. “Once the excavation is complete, we will leave the structure in its current state. We will create 3D images of the structure and information to provide to people in the long term,” Kenny said.

According to VNE