Ep 5. The Roman Fort that Wasn't There, Syndale

In Time Team season 11 episode 5, titled "The Roman Fort that Wasn't There, Syndale," the Time Team travels to Syndale, a village in Kent, England. The team is tasked with investigating a site where a Roman fort is rumored to have once stood. However, upon arrival, they are surprised to find that there is no evidence of a fort at the location.

Undeterred, the team begins their investigation by conducting geophysical surveys of the area. They use ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry, and resistivity surveys to detect any underground anomalies that could indicate the presence of a fort.

The first survey they conduct is the ground-penetrating radar survey. This survey involves the use of radar pulses to penetrate the ground and detect any structures or objects buried beneath the surface. The team is hoping to detect the remains of any walls or buildings associated with the fort.

Next, the team conducts a magnetometry survey. This survey involves using sensors to detect variations in the Earth's magnetic field caused by buried structures or objects. The team is hoping to detect patterns that could indicate the presence of a fort.

Finally, the team conducts a resistivity survey. This survey involves the use of electrical currents to detect variations in the conductivity of the soil. The team is hoping to detect any underground features that could be associated with a fort, such as ditches or walls.

As the surveys progress, the team uncovers some intriguing results. They detect what appears to be a large ditch surrounding the area where the fort is rumored to have stood. They also detect a series of linear anomalies that could be the remains of walls or buildings.

Excited by these findings, the team decides to excavate the site. They begin by digging test pits, hoping to confirm the geophysical surveys' results. They discover pottery and coins that suggest the area was indeed occupied during the Roman period.

Further excavations reveal the remains of a Roman villa. Although the villa is not a fort, the team is thrilled to have uncovered an unexpected piece of history. They uncover mosaic flooring, evidence of hypocausts, and a large octagonal room that would have been a grand reception hall.

Overall, the Time Team's investigation of Syndale has been a success. They may not have found the Roman fort they were originally looking for, but they uncovered a fascinating Roman villa that sheds new light on the region's history. The team's use of geophysical surveys and excavation techniques demonstrates the power of modern archaeology in uncovering the secrets of the past.