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United Kingdom Dover Kent Museum

Roman Painted House

Roman Painted House
About

The Roman Painted House in Dover is one of Britain’s most remarkable archaeological sites, often described as the finest Roman house on display in the country. Discovered in 1970 during construction work, it dates to around AD 200 and once formed part of a large Roman fort built to guard the harbour. What makes the site exceptional are its surviving painted plaster walls, with vivid red, green, and ochre frescoes that offer a rare glimpse into Roman interior decoration. Alongside these, visitors can see the remains of an elaborate underfloor heating system, or hypocaust, which reveals the sophistication of Roman engineering. The house was partly demolished in the late third century to make way for a new shore fort, but its remains were preserved beneath later structures until their rediscovery. Today, the Roman Painted House is open to the public with displays that explain its history and the wider story of Roman Dover, including links to the nearby Roman bathhouse. Free to enter, it provides a fascinating window into everyday life nearly two millennia ago and remains a highlight of Dover’s rich heritage.

Dover United Kingdom
Location

The Roman Painted House is located on New Street in the town centre of Dover, Kent, just a short walk from Dover Priory railway station. This remarkable Roman building, dating back around 2,000 years, was part of a large "mansio" or official hotel for travelers crossing the English Channel during Roman times. Nearby, visitors can explore Dover Museum and Market Square, which are just a few minutes away on foot. Dover Castle and the historic White Cliffs are also close by, making the Roman Painted House well-placed within a rich cultural and historical area. The site features exceptionally well-preserved painted murals and an elaborate hypocaust heating system, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Roman Britain.

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