Restoration work on a centuries-old canal in Wales has been halted after construction workers discovered what is believed to be an ancient Roman bathing complex, Heritage Daily reported.
Discovery Made Near Former Roman Town
The remarkable find was made beneath many layers of mud and silt at the Fourteen Locks Canal near Cefn Flight, in Monmouthshire, which lies only six miles from the former Roman fortress town of Caerleon. Researchers say the stone structures could belong to a heretofore unknown site dating back to the Roman Empire. The proximity of the bathing complex to Caerleon leads scientists to believe that the site was almost definitely used by the Romans. Caerleon itself contained numerous bathing complexes in addition to an amphitheater and boarding for 5,000 soldiers.
Theories Abound Regarding the Structure’s Use
Experts hypothesize that this most recent discovery may have served as an area for housing community members, or possibly as a military way-station which once communicated operations between Caerleon and other Welsh Roman communities. Researchers are hopeful that the complex will be definitively tied to the Romans, opening up new possibilities for discovery in an area already rich with archaeological artifacts. The building’s stone-lined, symmetrical structure is consistent with Roman engineering techniques for bath houses, including advanced heating and drainage mechanisms.
“There is a requirement for finds to be reported,” government officials said in a statement, “and we look forward to finding out more about any discoveries in due course.”
The Cefn Flight site currently holds Scheduled Monument status, which means written consent must be given before any work which could affect the artifacts may commence. If the newest discovery is indeed from the Roman era, the status would expand to include the bathing complex to guarantee its preservation for future research.
