"Rome Wasn't Built in a Day"

Channel 4's "Rome Wasn't Built in a Day" followed a team of modern builders as they set about building the town house using traditional Roman methods.

The builders were aided in their quest by a manual on Roman building written by engineer Vitruvius 2,000 years ago, and were supervised by Professor Dai Morgan Evans, the project's planner. The builders had just six months to master the skills and complete the town house.

Secrets within the walls

The building process has helped shed new light on how incredible feats of ancient engineering were achieved, and this remarkable replica stands as testament to the energy and ingenuity that defined so much of the Roman era.

The town house gives visitors a fascinating insight into the construction techniques used in this period. The walls of one room have been left in a variety of stages of completion, so that visitors can see what lies beneath the rendering and fresco finishes.

The design for the town house was inspired by an actual building excavated at the site and was created by Professor Dai Morgan Evans, visiting professor in archaeology at Chester University.

Take a look at the builders' handiwork with Channel 4's virtual tour. Note that the town house is now presented in its bare, undressed state, giving a greater insight into the ancient building techniques used for its construction.

Visit the town house

The town house is open daily from April to October, 10am - 5pm and weekends only between November and March, 10am - 4pm. Wroxeter Roman City is also open at these times. See full prices and opening times.