Roman-era sword finds lead to discovery of Iron Age settlement

[guy]

 

Following the discovery of two Roman-era swords near Willersey two years ago, nearby excavations have unearthed an extensive Iron Age settlement. A Roman villa may have also been discovered.

 

•   The discovery of two rare Roman cavalry swords near the village of Willersey in the Cotswolds has led to the unearthing of what might be a significant Iron Age to Roman settlement, possibly including a Roman villa.
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• 🗡️ The Discovery • In 2023, metal detectorist Glenn Manning, on only his second outing, found two iron Roman spathae (long cavalry swords) during a rally. • The swords, still bearing traces of their scabbards, were donated to the Corinium Museum in Cirencester. • X-rays revealed one sword had pattern welding, indicating high craftsmanship and status.
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•  🏛️ Archaeological Significance • Prompted by the sword find, Historic England conducted geophysical surveys, revealing: ◦ Three or four Iron Age ring ditches ◦ A substantial rectangular enclosure (68m x 55m) ◦ Roman limestone building remains, possibly a winged villa. • The site spans several centuries, from the Early Iron Age through the Roman period.
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•  🧩 Unsolved Mysteries • The swords date to the 2nd–3rd centuries AD, contemporary with the villa. • Their exact purpose or reason for being buried together remains unknown. • The absence of shoulder-belts suggests they may not have been buried as part of a military grave.
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•  🏺 Additional Finds • Roman building materials: ceramic roofing tiles, box flue tiles, painted wall plaster • Burials: an Iron Age burial with an iron arm band, a horse skull, and disarticulated human remains • These finds hint at ritual activity or long-term occupation.
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•  🏛️ Public Access & Future Plans • The swords will be on display at the Corinium Museum starting August 2.

 

 

 

 

 

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce8zzp83q3ro

Edited July 5, 2025 by guy