Villa rustica of Lopen, Roman villa ruins in Lopen, United Kingdom
Villa rustica of Lopen is a Roman rural estate in Somerset featuring extensive mosaic floors that spread across approximately ten meters. These floors display intricate geometric patterns and marine imagery, suggesting the site once belonged to wealthy inhabitants.
Excavations began in 2001 when workers uncovered the remains while constructing a farm access road. The Roman settlement dates to the fourth century and sat near the ancient Fosse Way trade route.
The mosaics found at Lopen belong to the Corinthian school of design, demonstrating the influence of Roman artistic traditions in fourth-century Britain.
The mosaics were reburied after excavation to shield them from weather and decay. Visitors should know that the remains are not visible today and access is restricted to guided tours or special arrangements with local experts.
The mosaic floors rank among the largest continuous examples ever found in Roman Britain. Their design combines geometric patterns with realistic depictions of sea creatures and aquatic plants.
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