Largest Roman mosaic in 50 years unearthed near London Bridge
At a construction site adjacent to The Shard, archaeologists from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) have revealed an impressive eight-meter-long Roman mosaic, marking the largest find of its kind in 50 years. This discovery, which occurred around a month ago, dates back to the late 2nd to early 3rd century AD. The vibrant main panel showcases floral designs encircled by twisted ropes, attributed to mosaic artisans known as Acanthus. It is believed that this mosaic was part of a triclinium (dining room) within a grand mansio, a luxurious hotel. Additionally, another Roman structure was uncovered, featuring painted walls, mosaic floors, coins, and jewelry. MOLA intends to remove the mosaic by the end of the year for conservation and exhibition. Antonietta Lerz described it as "a once-in-a-lifetime discovery."
Key facts
- Largest Roman mosaic found in London in 50 years
- Mosaic is eight meters long and richly decorated
- Dates to late 2nd to early 3rd century AD
- Discovered at construction site near London Bridge and The Shard
- Main panel attributed to Acanthus mosaicist group by Dr. David Neal
- Smaller panel similar to one in Trier, Germany
- Room identified as a triclinium, possibly part of a mansio
- Nearby building may have been wealthy private residence with painted walls, mosaic floors, coins, and jewelry
Entities
Artists
- David Neal
Institutions
- Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA)
- English Heritage
- The Guardian
- Artribune
Locations
- London
- London Bridge
- The Shard
- Londinium
- Trier
- Germany
- Thames
- The Liberty of Southwark