Rossett Roman Villa

When a metal detectorist unearthed a lead ingot near Wrexham in 2019, no one anticipated it would lead to discovering the first confirmed Roman villa in Northern Wales.

Excavations have since revealed a high-status complex complete with heated rooms, decorated plasterwork, and evidence of extensive trade connections – proof that Roman wealth and influence extended far deeper into Wales than previously believed.

Now, DigVentures and the University of Chester are joining up to explore new areas of the site to unearth the villa’s full story. What was the complete layout of this complex? How long was it occupied, and what can its artefacts reveal about daily life, work, and economy in Roman Wales?

This project will help fill a major gap in our understanding of Roman Britain while uncovering the story of Wrexham’s significant Roman past.