Roman dolphin mosaics found in Austria – History Blog

Three Roman mosaics were excavated in Thalheim, near Wells, Austria, including a pair of dolphins. Roman mosaic floors were extremely rare in Upper Austria and were in good condition.

The complex is located on the top of a mountain overlooking the Roman city of Ovilava. The structure is large; more than 1,000 square meters (10,800 square feet) have been discovered since the excavation began in 2023. The scale, characteristics and decoration of the structure indicate that it is a residential villa in the elite garden of the Empire period.

The first mosaic with geometric decoration was discovered late last year. So far, only a small number have been found. Excavations of this season found a pair of dolphins and large cyclones (a container used to mix wine and water) and spiraled over the shoulders with curved handles.

According to regional authorities, the uniqueness of these mosaics is due to their preservation state and the portrait characteristics of the scenes depicted, which both put this excavation in a prominent position in the regional archaeological panorama. Although major discoveries have been found throughout the country in recent years, this discovery in Thalheim Bei Wels highlights its combination of artistic qualities, built environment and scientific potential. […]

With this discovery, Thalheim Bei Wels joins key sites of Roman archaeology in the Northern Alps, while unusual dolphin patterns outside the Mediterranean environment raise interesting questions about the artistic and symbolic links between the northern provinces of the empire and the center of the southern artwork.

The ultimate fate of the mosaic is currently under discussion. Lift them up and display them permanently in the redesigned archaeological gallery of the Linz Castle Museum. Another is showing them at Wells’ 2027 State Garden Show.