Recent excavations at Wroxeter Roman City in Shropshire, England, have revealed an ancient mosaic dating back to the early second century.
The mosaic features dolphins and fish depicted on colorful white, red, and blue tiles, according to a news release from English Heritage.
The ancient city, established in the 90s AD, was once a bustling metropolis comparable in size to Pompeii. It is believed to have housed over 200 homes, a public bathhouse, a marketplace, and more.
While only a handful of buildings remain today, there is still much to be discovered, as evidenced by this recent find. A significant portion of the city remains unexcavated.
The excavations were a collaborative effort between English Heritage, the University of Birmingham, Vianova Archaeology & Heritage Services, and Albion Archaeology. A team of 30 archaeologists participated in the dig.
The excavations were initially undertaken to locate the city’s Civic Temple, but the discovery exceeded expectations.
A large monumental building near the city’s main road was unearthed, along with a possible shrine, neither of which were unexpected finds.
The mosaic, however, was a surprising discovery that left archaeologists “amazed.”
The artwork was created shortly after the city’s founding and “must have been commissioned by a wealthy and influential individual,” according to the news release.
Other artifacts found at the site include coins and pottery fragments.