Fishbourne Roman Palace & Gardens
About
Fishbourne Roman Palace, situated in the village of Fishbourne near Chichester in West Sussex, is the largest Roman residence north of the Alps. Excavated in the 1960s, the palace spreads over approximately 46,000 m² and boasts more than 50 mosaics, including the celebrated Dolphin and Cupid mosaics. The surviving northern wing now houses a museum that displays Roman art and artifacts, while the surrounding gardens have been meticulously restored to recreate Britain’s earliest Roman gardens. Visitors can wander through the well‑preserved mosaics, explore the reconstructed peristyle garden, and learn about Roman Britain’s elite culture in an engaging, on‑site exhibition. The site offers a unique window into Roman domestic life, showcasing intricate floorwork, wall paintings, and monumental architecture that would have once entertained a Roman client king. Its combination of archaeological significance and visitor-friendly facilities makes it a highlight for those interested in Roman history, art, and heritage.
Highlights
- Largest Roman Residence in Britain
- Dolphin Mosaic
- Cupid Mosaic