2,000 year old Roman plates and bowls discovered in West Suffolk
The finds were discovered in Euston - and have just gone on display at West Stow
Last updated 29th Jun 2023
A collection of 2,000 year old Roman plates, platters, bowls and a cup has been discovered in West Suffolk.
The vessels were discovered buried in a pit on the Euston Estate, near RAF Honington.
They were carefully stacked suggesting they had been deliberately placed, possibly as an offering.
The discovery was made last year by local metal detectorist Martin White, while taking place in the East of England Rally detecting event.
Martin said: “I’ve been detecting for about 10 years, and this is the most high profile find I’ve made so far, it was very exciting!"
"We quickly consulted with the Archaeological Service so that the items could be removed and recorded, without being damaged.
"It was a privilege to be involved in the whole process, from discovery to excavation to seeing the finds go on display.”
Suffolk's Archaological Service carefully excavated and recovered the hoard, which will be on display at the West Stow Anglo-Saxon village and museum until January 2024.
Faye Minter, Suffolk County Council’s Archaeological Archives and Projects Manager, said:
“This is a significant discovery. The larger plates and platters were used to allow food to be served communally and the octagonal bowls may have a Christian reference.
"Similar hoards are found across southern Britain, including from the nearby large Roman settlements at Icklingham and Hockwold.”
Councillor Melanie Vigo di Gallidoro, a Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member, said:
“It is amazing to think that this fragile hoard has survived thousands of years, and being discovered by Martin, that adds to the Suffolk story."
"This is a fantastic example of teamwork, with many organisations coming together to help preserve Suffolk’s history, all made possible by the generous support of the Euston Estate, East of England Rallies and, of course, Martin.”