Time Team Season 16 Episode 7 Toga Town: Caerwent, South Wales

In the 7th episode of the 16th season titled Toga Town: Caerwent, South Wales, the Time Team travels to the site of a key Roman town located in present-day Caerwent, South Wales. The team aims to explore the hidden secrets of this once-thriving Roman military site, which was the main hub for handling military campaigns in western Britain.

As the team arrives on site, they are greeted by the well-preserved remains of the ancient town, including the Roman walls and public buildings that still stand tall. The team starts their quest to uncover the mysteries hidden under the visible ruins and begins with the excavation of a potential Roman bathhouse. Archaeological experts on the team believe that this could be the largest Roman bathhouse in all of South Wales and a site of significant importance.

The Time Team splits into different groups to explore the various corners of the ancient site. One group sets out to survey the outer walls of the town to map out the roman town's defenses and possible entry points. The other group focuses on investigating the remains of the town's main street and public buildings, including an old market, temple, and granary. They find fascinating relics such as pottery, jewelry, and an ancient iron tool believed to be part of the town's blacksmith shop.

The team also examines three burial chambers recently discovered deep underground. These chambers are thought to have once been the resting place of some significant Roman dignitaries. All attempts so far to penetrate inside have been thwarted by the hostile underground tunnels. The team decides to call in a team of specialized cavers to explore and help excavate the site further.

As the experts delve deeper into the site, they discover fascinating details about the lives of the Roman soldiers and the civilians who once called this town home. Among the many discoveries is an intricate design featuring a mosaic tile thought to be a symbol of the Roman deity Mithras, which was discovered beneath the granary building. Additionally, they find a parade ground that might have hosted major military events and performances, with a viewing stand created on the top of the town's walls.

As the Time Team continues to unravel the secrets of this once thriving Roman military town, they realize that despite the many adversities it faced, the town continued to thrive for almost four centuries. The team's discoveries paint a picture of the town's history and people, and they are determined to preserve and share it with the world. In the end, the team concludes that Caerwent is one of the most well-preserved Roman towns in the United Kingdom, and their discoveries are of immense historical significance.