A remarkable archaeological discovery has revealed an Iron Age Roman settlement near a Cotswolds village following the uncovering of two rare Roman cavalry swords. The swords were found during a metal detecting rally near Willersey two years ago by Glenn Manning, who described the find as “amazing” and recalls having a strong feeling he would find something special that day.
The swords, dating back to the early second to third century AD, are believed to be “spatha,” long swords used by Roman cavalrymen. They were donated to the Corinium Museum in Cirencester where they are now part of a rare collection of Roman weaponry.
Following the find, Historic England conducted geophysical surveys at the site, which uncovered the presence of extensive prehistoric and Romano-British remains. Excavations earlier this year revealed multiple settlements spanning centuries, including three or four Iron Age ring ditches, a large rectangular enclosure, and remains of Roman limestone buildings that could represent a winged villa.
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Senior archaeologist Ian Barnes from Historic England emphasized the significance of the find, noting it sheds new light on settlement patterns from the Early Iron Age through the Roman period in Gloucestershire. The discovery offers important insights into the turbulent period surrounding the Roman Conquest.
Peter Busby from Cotswold Archaeology praised the combined efforts of volunteers, archaeologists, and metal detectorists in uncovering the story of a settlement that endured for hundreds of years, despite adverse weather conditions during the excavation.
Emma Stuart, director of the Corinium Museum, highlighted the importance of these rare artefacts, explaining that the preservation of scabbard remnants adds another fascinating dimension to the region’s Roman history.
The swords will be on display at the Corinium Museum to the public starting August 2.