Archaeologists say recent finds in Wiltshire show the Romans settled for more than 300 years in the area. A huge Roman villa complex was discovered beneath a new housing estate in Swindon recently.
The remains were uncovered when developers began preparing the site for housing.
Archaeologist David Miles told the BBC there was also evidence that the Romans settled in the area in far greater numbers than was previously thought.
Cold baths
The remains, found at Groundwell Ridge, are being celebrated as "one of the most important Roman sites in England" by English Heritage.
Interest in the 12-hectare site was sparked in 1996 when builders using a bulldozer "stumbled on" a Roman wall.
Excavation work has uncovered a villa complete with hot and cold baths, gymnasium, stables and outbuildings.
Other objects found during digs there include a silver bowl, glassware, pottery, coins, a jet brooch and a lead figurine, possibly of the goddess Minerva.
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