Rethinking Roman decline
The work that began in 2012 was part of a six-year programme of archaeological digs and research which is shedding new light on Chedworth Roman Villa and the history of Romans in South West Britain. Research and dating on the mosaic however have only recently been completed.
Martin Papworth, National Trust archaeologist explains, “The 5th century is a time which marks the beginning of the sub-Roman period, often called the ‘Dark Ages’, a time from which few documents survive, and archaeological evidence is scarce.
“After almost 400 years, Britain had been lost by Rome, units of the regular army and members of the civil service were either being withdrawn or no longer paid in cash and their wages in the form of coinage ceased to be brought into Britain by the central government. This saw production decline, and the craft and service industries became unsustainable.
“It has generally been believed that most of the population turned to subsistence farming to sustain themselves and, after the break with Rome, Britannia’s administrative system broke down into a series of local fiefdoms.
“What is so exciting about the dating of this mosaic at Chedworth is that it is evidence for a more gradual decline. The creation of a new room and the laying of a new floor suggests wealth, and a mosaic industry continuing 50 years later than had been expected.
“This 5th century date was so different from what is generally thought that after discussions with the National Trust’s expert advisors, a second radiocarbon date was needed alongside pottery analysis before I could be sure.”