A remarkable archaeological discovery has captivated both historians and culture enthusiasts: three extraordinarily well -preserved Roman mosaics were discovered in Thalheim Bei Wels, a site near the Roman Ovilava Roman city (no Wels).
The excavations, led by archaeologists from the University of Salzburg in collaboration with the Cultural Institution of the State Austria, have revealed a vast complex of almost 2,000 years old Romanian villas
From 2023, the researchers explore the ruins located on Reinberg Hill, which offers an impressive view of what Ovilava was once – an important Roman settlement in Noricum.
The size and location of the site are impressive. Covering more than 1,000 square meters, the villa probably belonged to one of the richest families in the region, based on architectural complexity and high quality decorative elements, notes Noi.md with reference to.
During the last week of the excavation campaign of 2024, archaeologists discovered the first of the three amazing floors in the mosaic. Two other mosaics were discovered during the excavations of 2025.
One presents a large vessel with curved groves and a wide mouth, which is believed to represent a krater, an ancient wine mix – an object used in a Roman holiday rituals.
Another mosaic presents complicated geometric models, only partially excavated so far.
The excavation phase ended on June 6, 2025, but the public had a rare opportunity to see these ancient masterpieces.
On Tuesday, June 10, a special day of open excavations allowed visitors to see mosaics on the spot and to find out more about ongoing research.
