Monument record 1621/3 - Possible Romano-British Temple Complex, Mansio or Civic Adminstration Complex

{1} Evidence for temples is based largely on aerial photography though recent analysis of artefacts discovered through metal detecting now provides additional support (Curteis et al. 2000). In addition to the possibility that the central compound within the settlement is a temple precinct, there are two other probable shrines to the south and west of the town (see Mon 1621/4 and Mon 1621/5).

{2} The polygonal area defined by the main junction within the settlement contained a rectilinear stone founded enclosure within which stood an important group of stone buildings whose interpretation is problematic. It is possible that they formed a religious complex around a square Romano-Celtic temple at the heart of the town but there is little visible in their current plan to suggest this is necessarily the case. An equally plausible alternative is that the buildings comprise a small official administrative complex for the town or acted as a wayside station (a mansio or mutatio) along the two main roads. Either way it probably marks the source of an elaborately decorated stone capital found on the field surface (1621/0/11).

<1> Taylor J., 2000, Northamptonshire Extensive Urban Survey: Titchmarsh (Roman), Section 3.5.1 Temples and Shrines (checked) (Digital archive). SNN100748.

<2> Taylor J., 2000, Northamptonshire Extensive Urban Survey: Titchmarsh (Roman), p.9 (part checked) (Report). SNN106660.

Record last edited

Feb 10 2014 3:43PM