Over the Christmas break, I embarked on a journey that took me centuries back in time. I had the pleasure of visiting the Roman villa at The Newt in Somerset. Despite the torrential rain, the experience was nothing short of magical and I'm excited to share this adventure with you.
For those unfamiliar, The Newt is a remarkable estate in Somerset, England, which sits on grounds steeped in history. The estate houses the recently excavated Roman ruins dating back to 351 A.D. To celebrate this amazing discovery, The Newt has undertaken the ambitious project of recreating the historic Villa Ventorum, the Romano-British villa that once stood on its grounds. This recreation has made The Newt a must-visit historical site, putting it on the map alongside renowned British historical sites like Bath and Stonehenge.
The journey began with a ride on a charming mini-bus, a quick remedy for the rain-soaked day. Upon reaching the villa, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the reconstructed Villa Ventorum. The fourth-century Roman villa was recreated by a team of archaeologists, architects, engineers, and craftsmen. They have painstakingly replicated every detail of the villa to offer an immersive experience into the life of upper-class Romans.
Walking through the Villa Ventorum is like stepping into a time machine. From the kitchens, accommodations to the working complex of Roman baths, every corner of the villa reveals a slice of Roman life. The villa is laid out in a t-shaped plan, featuring a vineyard garden, ponds, and surrounding fields spanning more than 10 acres. What's fascinating is that the experience goes beyond just the sights; it also captures the sounds and smells of daily Roman life, making it a truly multisensory experience.
The visit to Villa Ventorum starts at the new museum, where guests get to learn about the archaeological findings of the original site. The museum is a treasure trove of knowledge, illustrating how these findings inspired the recreated villa. With the use of technology and interactive exhibits, you genuinely feel as though you've been transported back to the fourth century.
The visit to the Roman villa at The Newt was essentially a journey back in time, adding a historical touch to my Christmas break. The Villa Ventorum stands as a testament to the grandeur of Roman architecture and design, providing timeless inspiration. I look forward to incorporating the insights gained from this visit into my design projects. Here's to more design adventures in the future! I'll certainly return on a sunnier day, although I anticipate it will be busier. Perhaps visiting in the rain has its advantages.