What significant Roman structure was found in Margam country park?

A large Roman villa, described as "Port Talbot's Pompeii," has been discovered in Margam country park.

How does the Margam villa discovery change our understanding of Roman Wales?

It suggests South Wales was a key agricultural area within the Roman Empire, rather than a remote frontier zone.

Why is the Margam Roman villa so well-preserved?

Its excellent preservation is due to Margam's long history as a deer park, protecting it from damage.

Home / Science / Port Talbot's 'Pompeii': Massive Roman Villa Found

Port Talbot's 'Pompeii': Massive Roman Villa Found

12 Jan

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Summary

A large Roman villa, dubbed 'Port Talbot's Pompeii,' has been discovered in Margam country park.
The find suggests South Wales was a central agricultural area, not a Roman frontier.
The site's excellent preservation is attributed to its history as a deer park.

Port Talbot's 'Pompeii': Massive Roman Villa Found

A remarkable Roman villa, found hidden beneath Margam country park near Port Talbot, is prompting a significant reevaluation of South Wales's history during the Roman period. Initially known for its industrial past, the area is now revealed to have been a potentially important agricultural hub within the Roman Empire, challenging the long-held view of Wales as merely a frontier zone.

Dubbed "Port Talbot's Pompeii" due to its potential for preservation, the villa's footprint is exceptionally large, possibly the biggest of its kind in Wales. Experts suggest it may have been a center for agriculture, comparable to grand villas found in other parts of Roman Britain, indicating a more civilized and integrated presence than previously assumed.