Bignor Roman Villa
Model of Bignor Roman Villa This evening, I am providing summary information on Bignor Roman Villa which is situated about 10 miles from Chichester (formerly Roman Noviomagus Regnensium) in southern England. First discovered in 1811 and excavated 1812-1819 the 1920s then 1956-62,. Earliest phase dates from first century AD comprising a farmstead with a ditched enclosure. The first stone built house was a simple building constructed in mid third century and comprised only four rooms. Extended in late third century with addition of hypocaust (central heating), a portico, more rooms and impressive facade. Further expansions occurred comprising north and south wings, a new gate in the east wall and enlarged baths. This may have been the high status home of a family or extended family which had grown wealthy from farming. Location close to Stane Street which linked the villa with Noviomagus Regnensium was probably intended to impress passers-by. In its final form Big...