'Most interesting of the century' Roman mosaic found in the UK

Researchers have recently unearthed a remarkable mosaic from the Roman era in Great Britain.

The precious work was found in a Roman villa beneath a farmer's field in Rutland and has been protected by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS). It is the only UK work of its kind, it presents stunning scenes from Homer's The Iliad, and is one of the few surviving works in the whole of Europe. The painting, measuring 11x7 meters, partially depicts the story of the Greek hero Achilles.

The mosaic measures 11x7 meters.

This piece of art is said to have been located in the building's dining and entertainment area.

The rancher's son, Jim Irvine, was the first to discover the mosaic. "I was wandering through the fields with my family when I spotted it," Irvine said.

The site was later investigated by archaeologists from the University of Leicester (ULAS), in partnership with Historic England. The excavation also involved staff and students from the School of Archeology and Ancient History at the University of Leicester.

Mosaic paintings were used for decoration in a number of private and public structures throughout the Roman Empire, and often depict famous historical and mythological figures.

This is rated as the "most interesting" discovery in the UK.

The Rutland mosaic is "unique" because it shows Achilles and his battle with Hector at the end of the Trojan War.

The large villa containing the mosaic is believed to have been built during the late Roman period, between the 3rd and 4th centuries AD, and belonged to a wealthy nobleman with knowledge of ancient cultures.

John Thomas, ULAS Deputy Director and project manager of the excavation, said: "This is without a doubt the most exciting Roman mosaic discovery in the UK. It gives us new insights. It's very informative about people's attitudes at the time, their connection to ancient cultures, and it also tells us a lot about the individual who kept this work."