More information : Excavations and geophysical surveys around Fosse Lane uncovered the remains of a Roman undefended linear settlement running along the Fosse Way, possibly for a kilometre. An irregular pattern of buildings, enclosures, industrial sites and inhumation cemeteries extending back up to 300m on both sides of the Roman road. It dates from the 1st/2nd century AD and occupation of the site extended into the 5th century as suggested by the chi-rho amulet cross found in a grave. A rectangular mausoleum was also uncovered. (1)
ST 62884239 An area of the Romano-British linear village at Fosse Lane, Shepton Mallet. The settlement dating to between the 1st and 4th centuries AD, included stone and timber-framed structures fronting the Fosse Way with yards to the rear, and streets running off at right angles to the main road, field boundaries and areas of industrial activity indicated by metal smelting ovens, traces of iron ore residues, slag and lead ingots. The three cemeteries appear to exhibit changes in religious belief and burial practices. Two of the cemeteries include burials orientated north-south and are thought to be pagan; the third, with burials orientated east-west, is interpreted as Christian and has produced a silver amulet cross engraved with a chi-rho. (2) |