The Roman Painted House has concluded its public openings for the year and will welcome visitors again starting April 1st of the next year. Until November 30th, the venue remains available for educational workshops for schools and pre-scheduled group visits.
Location Insights
Located in the historic town of Dover, the Roman Painted House is celebrated as the most exquisite Roman residence accessible in Britain. Discovered by the Kent Archaeological Rescue Unit, this site is one of fifty significant structures unearthed in Dover over four decades. Initially part of an expansive mansio that served as an official stopover for Channel-crossers, this house was razed in AD 270 to make way for a more extensive fortification. The strategic site offers a rare glimpse into the ancient harbor’s layout.
Architectural and Artistic Marvels
The house’s demolition by Roman forces unintentionally preserved over 400 square feet of vibrant wall paintings, making it the largest collection found north of the Alps. The frescoes depict colorful architectural motifs framed by elegantly fluted columns, all resting on a vividly portrayed foundation that creates a dynamic three-dimensional illusion. This artwork prominently features motifs dedicated to Bacchus, the deity of wine.
Innovations in Roman Living
The architectural integrity of the house remains robust, with walls in several rooms standing four to six feet high and intact red concrete flooring. These foundations house a well-preserved Roman hypocaust heating system, complete with expansive flues and ventilation shafts, illustrating the advanced living standards during the Roman era.
Recognition and Preservation
Since its discovery in 1970 and subsequent public opening in 1977 by the Dover Roman Painted House Trust, the site has attracted over 700,000 visitors. The preservation efforts have garnered multiple national accolades, such as the “Best Preservation of an Archaeological Site in Britain,” among others. The site’s maintenance is nearly self-sustained through admission fees and volunteer contributions.
Educational and Interactive Displays
The Roman Painted House also features an exhibition on Roman Dover, which includes thirty panels detailing the site’s archaeological significance and its historical context. Additionally, visitors can engage with hands-on activities like brass rubbing of Roman and medieval figures and exploring a variety of archaeological finds on the touch table.
Academic Engagement
The site is an educational goldmine for school groups from across Southeast England and France, aligning with the National Curriculum to offer rich, on-site learning experiences. The facility is equipped with amenities like a gift shop, restrooms, and free parking, making it an ideal educational destination.
Ongoing Discoveries
The exploration efforts by the Kent Unit have not only spotlighted the Roman Painted House but also unearthed significant parts of Dover’s Roman and medieval past, including forts and churches. These findings are detailed in several comprehensive research volumes available at the site.