Isle of Wight villa to be excavated as part of 5 year project

From BBC news.

One of the Isle of Wight's most important historical sites is set to be uncovered in a five-year long archaeological dig.

Only part of Brading Roman Villa has been excavated so far.

Now a leading Oxford University professor and 20 graduate archaeologists are to work on the four-acre site to excavate it further.

Sir Barry Cunliffe said there are signs the north side could contain a large assembly hall with side aisles.

He is hoping to find more mosaic floors like the ones in the main building.

The remains of the Brading Roman Villa were found in 1879, by a local farmer.

Five years ago, the villa was listed by the World Monument Fund as one of the world's 100 most endangered sites before a full refurbishment was carried out in 2004.

The project, which is due to start in August, will cost about £50,000 a year and will also involve local people.

Full story here.