NHER 52209 (Cropmark and Earthwork record) - The site of a probable Roman temple to the south of the Roman town of Venta Icenorum

This site was previously recorded under NHER 9836.

November 2009. Norfolk NMP.
The site of a probable Roman temple is visible on aerial photographs (S1-S2) to the south of the Roman town of Venta Icenorum (NHER 9786). The temple, probably a Romano-Celtic temple, is possibly located within an enclosed precinct or an area of enclosures or fields, recorded under NHER 52210. However, it is not clear whether all of these features are contemporary. The possible temple is clearly visible as a cropmark, indicating a central sunken area, surrounded by a rectangular wall or structure, 6m by 4.5m (S1-S2). This appears to be surrounded by a narrow outer ditch (S2). Whilst a stone built structure, such as a temple, does seem the most likely interpretation given the context, alternative interpretations could be made. The cropmark is exceptionally clear, especially when compared with other structural components of the Roman town, for example in (S1), although this may be due to different soil and crop conditions. This clarity could indicate a later and post-Roman date. It is also feasible that the cropmarks relate to later structure or feature, potentially a well or similar structure with a sunken central chamber. The fact that the temple, and the boundaries surrounding it (NHER 52210), appears to follow a different alignment to the Roman town street grid and ditches, could also suggest a non-Roman date, however it is feasible that it represents a phase of Roman activity that pre-dates or post-dates the main town street layout. See NHER 52210 for further discussion.
S. Horlock (NMP), 23 November 2009.