Archaeologists have discovered the largest Roman villa ever built in Wales. The find was discovered in Margam Country Park in the south of the country.
The discovery was made through geophysical surveys using ground-penetrating radar. The devices revealed a large structure located less than a meter below the surface. The area where it was found had been undeveloped and largely unused for agriculture for centuries, contributing to the excellent preservation of the remains.
The survey revealed that the villa had an area of approximately 572 m² and was surrounded by a fortification system. The structure had a corridor layout with two wings and a veranda. According to researchers, it was a representative building belonging to the local elite, likely richly decorated with sculptures and mosaics.
Other structures were also discovered at the site, including a large building measuring 354 m², which may have served as a barn or gathering place. The findings indicate the existence of a large agricultural estate that was an important center of social and economic life.
The current priority is to protect the site from destruction and illegal exploration.
