Littledean Roman Temple

The Roman site at Littledean, discovered in 1984, has been identified as a significant water shrine or temple complex. known as a nymphaeum with origins dating back to the Iron Age and possible continuity into the early Christian period. Bryn Walters, a leading authority on water shrines, has played a key role in studying the site, which is believed to have venerated Sabrina, the river goddess of the Severn.

The temple, situated above the dramatic horseshoe bend of the Severn, featured a central pool surrounded by a peristyle courtyard, with an entrance court to the east and a large apse to the west. Excavations have uncovered evidence of a conduit system, possibly designed to create a fountain effect, as well as architectural features such as column bases and drainage systems. The site likely remained a healing sanctuary throughout the Roman period, with votive offerings found in the spring-fed pool, dating from the Mesolithic to the late Iron Age.

New research between 2020 and 2022 has revealed an earlier Iron Age phase, including a large circular wooden shrine that may have preceded the Roman temple. This structure, within a rectangular ditched enclosure, contained three springhead pools and a Bronze Age cemetery. These discoveries suggest a long ritual tradition, evolving from an Iron Age water sanctuary to one of the largest rural temple complexes in Roman Britain. Further investigations aim to confirm the full extent of the site’s sacred and architectural development.

References for Littledean Roman Temple

• Excavations at Dean Hall, Little Dean, 1985. – by Jones, G & Maude, K
• https://littledeanhall.wordpress.com/

Sites near Littledean Roman Temple

• Ariconium (11 km)
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• Huntsham Villa (12 km)
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• Lydney Camp Iron Mines (12 km)
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• Lydney Camp (12 km)
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• Lydney Park - Baths (12 km)
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• Lydney Park Temple (12 km)
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• Little Doward Camp (14 km)
  
• Monmouth (Blestium) Roman Fort (16 km)
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• Blestium (Monmouth) Vicus (16 km)
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• Gloucester (Colonia Glevum) Roman Settlement (17 km)
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