- Fishbourne Roman Palace is located in the village of Fishbourne on Chichester Harbour, 2 miles (3km) from Chichester in West Sussex.
- It is the largest villa to be found north of Rome, and has a larger layout than Buckingham Palace.
History
- The Roman Palace was built during the reign of Vespasian in c. 75 CE, and it continued in use until it was burnt down in c.270 CE.
- The original owner is unknown, with speculation varying from a local British Chieftain, King Cogidubnus, to a Governor of Britannia, Sallustius Lucullus.
Roman Palace and Museum
- Parts of the building date from the Roman Conquest of Britannia in 43 CE.
- It is the same size as the Domus Aurea (Golden Palace) of Nero in Rome. The plan, size and layout bears close resemblance to the Palace of Domitian in Rome.
- 50 Roman Mosaics
- Underfloor heating
- Large bath complex
- It has four residential wings in a square
- A central courtyard surrounded by colonnades with ornamental gardens and fountains
- A monumental entrance in the east wing.
- Decorations consisted of extensive wall paintings and Opus sectile
- A terraced landscaped garden led from the south wing to a quayside.
- A recreated Roman herb garden.
Links
Roman Roads
- Stane Street (nearby)
- London-Pulborough-Bignor-Chichester–Dell Quay
Nearby Roman Sites
- Chichester
- Roman City Walls, Amphitheatre remains and Museum.
- Bosham
- Bignor Roman Villa
- Dell Quay
- Worthing Museum and Art Gallery
- The museum holds several Roman Hoards including the Patching Hoard of Roman Gold and Silver.
Fishbourne Roman Palace, Fishbourne, Chichester