A Roman villa on the outskirts of Scarborough, North Yorkshire, was re-interred just a year after it was discovered.
This re-burial will allow the preservation of the building described as potentially
"the first of its type",
reports the BBC
.
The complex, with an area of just under 400 m2, is made up of a thermal establishment, a central heating system as well as several circular and apsidal structures.
The practice of re-burial is not uncommon.
Archaeological sites may be reburied for a number of reasons, including financial difficulties in maintaining the site, as well as protection from vandalism, damage by tourists, or weather conditions.
Already vandalized
One night after its discovery, between April 14 and 15, 2021, the archaeological site had already been the subject of a wild survey.
The thief or thieves, equipped with metal detectors, had stirred up the earth around the excavation perimeter, perhaps taking with them some remains.
Speaking in April 2021, Historic England's Ancient Monuments Inspector Keith Emerick said the function of the complex was not yet updated, but described it as a Roman version of a stately home.
“
This is a truly exciting discovery and one of definite national significance
.
I would say that it is even one of the most important Roman discoveries of the last ten years.
Easily
,” Keith Emerick told the British press.
Following this discovery, the promoter Keepmoat Home, which was to build houses on this site, had modified its project.
Instead, a landscaping that will incorporate a representation of the remains, to inform visitors of the importance of the discovery, should see the light of day.
