If you are interested in Roman mosaics, then this issue of CA will be something of a treat for you! Three of this month’s articles touch on different aspects of these fabulous floors, beginning with our cover feature, which highlights the latest discoveries from Wroxeter, once one of the largest urban centres in Britain. There, the first research excavations to take place on the site in over 30 years have uncovered illuminating new insights into the Roman settlement’s city centre – including part of a high-status building boasting a beautiful mosaic with an aquatic theme.
We also examine the life and work of an archaeologist who has made a major contribution to our understanding of mosaics: David Neal, who has been documenting new discoveries since 1960.
Completing this tessellated trilogy, images of elegant mosaics also appear in an article celebrating the 30th birthday of one of the UK’s major commercial units. University of Leicester Archaeological Services have been transforming our knowledge of the historic environment in the Midlands since 1995; we explore some of their key discoveries, from a certain ‘king in the car park’ to elaborately decorated Roman townhouses.
Complementing the above, we have a report showcasing some of the latest advances in archaeological science – from analysing Roman cremations to conserving Victorian dinosaur statues – as we mark the recent refurbishment and reopening of Historic England’s Fort Cumberland laboratories.
We close with an exploration of Cotswold parish churches, highlighting some of the features (and challenges) specific to excavating within ecclesiastical environments.
In this issue:
FEATURES
REVEALING ROMAN WROXETER
New insights from one of Britannia’s largest urban centres
Recent excavations at Wroxeter – the first in over 30 years – have revealed new evidence of this influential settlement’s city centre.
THE FUTURE OF STUDYING THE PAST
Showcasing archaeologicl science at Fort Cumberland
With the reopening of Historic England’s Fort Cumberland Laboratory in Portsmouth, we examine some research highlights.
A LIFE ON THE TILES
Exploring the work of David Neal as artist and archaeologist
Drawing on a his recently published autobiography, we explore David Neal’s impact on our understanding of Romano-British mosaics.
A MIDLANDS MILESTONE
Marking 30 years of excavations by the University of Leicester Archaeological Services
As one of the UK’s major commercial units celebrates its 30th birthday, we look at some of ULAS’ most memorable projects.
CURRENT CHURCH ARCHAEOLOGY
Exploring the peculiarities of excavating in sacred spaces
Based on his work in religious establishments, Chiz Harward explains the ins and out of archaeology in ecclesiastical settings.
LETTERS
Your comments, complaints, and compliments
NEWS
Sutton Hoo bucket revealed as cremation urn; Redating the famous Maiden Castle burials; Excavating Eaglais na h-Aoidhe on the Isle of Lewis; Uncovering Moira Castle; Relapsing fever bacteria identified in skeletal remains; Science Notes; Ground-penetrating radar reveals new details of Lincoln Castle; Finds Tray
COMMENT
Joe Flatman excavates the CA archive
CONTEXT
Victory at Vindolanda: Bardon Mill, Northumberland
REVIEWS
A Land Won from Waste: Scotland AD 400-1400; The Celts: a modern history; Landscape Stability and the Formation of Social Memory in Prehistoric Britain; Between Peak and Plain: excavations on a multiperiod site at Mellor, Stockport, 1998-2009; ‘Your Church Newly Built…’: history of the Church of the Holy Trinity, Minchinhampton, Gloucestershire; Castles of Scotland
MUSEUM
Cornwall Museum & Art Gallery, Truro
MUSEUM NEWS
The latest on acquisitions, exhibitions, and key decisions
GO DIGGING!
Our fourth array of upcoming excavation opportunities to get involved in this summer
FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY
Regional highlights from among the many events, activities, and digital resources offered as part of the CBA’s Festival of Archaeology
LISTINGS
Our selection of exhibitions and events, as well as historical, archaeological, and cultural resources online
SHERDS
Chris Catling’s irreverent take on heritage issues
ODD SOCS
Holst Victorian House
