Ep 7. Cunetio

Time Team season 17 episode 7 titled "Cunetio" takes us on an extraordinary archaeological journey to uncover the secrets of an ancient Roman site in the heart of England. In this episode, Tony Robinson and his dedicated team of experts embark on an exploration that promises to reveal fascinating insights into the Roman Empire's far-reaching influence.

The episode begins with the team arriving at the lush countryside of Pewsey Vale in Wiltshire, where they have been invited to investigate the remains of the Cunetio Romano-British town. This site, hidden beneath layers of soil for centuries, is believed to have been a bustling center of commerce and trade during the Roman occupation of Britain.

With their usual enthusiasm and meticulous planning, the Time Team wastes no time in setting up camp nearby and commencing their excavation. Their primary objective is to uncover the fascinating story behind this forgotten Roman town, relying on a combination of historical records and cutting-edge archaeological techniques.

Led by the astute Mick Aston, the team delves deeper into the history of Cunetio. They discover that the town was strategically located along the path of an ancient Roman road called Ermin Street, which connected the important Roman cities of Silchester and Cirencester. This realization provides a crucial insight into the town's historical significance.

The team begins excavating various areas around the site, carefully sifting through layers of earth and uncovering countless artifacts. Pottery sherds, coins, and fragments of Roman mosaics start to emerge, all pointing to the region's vibrant Roman past. Through the decoding of these archaeological finds, Time Team hopes to recreate a vivid picture of the thriving town that once stood there.

Among the many intriguing aspects explored during the excavation is the town's bathhouse complex. The team uncovers the remains of these luxurious bathing facilities, which were key indicators of Roman prosperity. By analyzing the architectural layout and design, the experts attempt to piece together how the bathhouse functioned and what it meant for the Roman inhabitants.

As the excavation progresses, the Time Team encounters unexpected challenges typical of archaeological projects. They face inclement weather, technical difficulties, and the ever-present race against the clock. However, their unwavering determination and teamwork ensure that they continue to make significant discoveries despite the setbacks.

In addition to the physical excavation, the team also consults historical experts and local historians to shed light on Cunetio's significance within the wider context of Roman Britain. These insights provide valuable clues about the town's purpose, economy, and social structure, adding depth to the narrative taking shape.

Throughout the episode, the Time Team's infectious enthusiasm for archaeology shines through as they uncover more pieces of the puzzle. The relentless digging eventually reveals evidence of other buildings and structures within the town, allowing the team to imagine what life was like for the Romans who called Cunetio home.

With the excavation drawing to a close, the climax of the episode sees the team presenting their findings to a crowd of interested locals and experts. Through a combination of artifacts, reconstructions, and historical analysis, the Time Team paints a vivid picture of Cunetio as a thriving Roman town at the height of the empire.

"Time Team" season 17 episode 7, "Cunetio," captures the excitement and discovery that lies at the heart of archaeological exploration. With their trademark expertise and passion, Tony Robinson and the team peel back the layers of history to uncover a lost chapter in the story of Roman Britain. Through their efforts, Cunetio is brought back to life, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the fascinating world of the ancient Romans.