One of archaeology's enigmas is to go on display at the University of Nottingham Museum at Lakeside Arts, along with the fascinating story of its discovery and excavation.
The Norton Disney Dodecahedron exhibition, which looks at the last two years of excavations from the Lincolnshire village, opens on Friday 25 July, and will remain on display for visitors until Sunday 18 January 2026.
In the summer of 2023, a small amateur archaeological team, the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group, working in partnership with the commercial archaeology company Allen Archaeology, discovered the artefact, while excavating a Roman site in Norton Disney close to a Roman villa and the Fosse Way Roman road. Toward the end of their excavations – which began at the site in 2019 – the rare and very fine example of a Gallo Roman dodecahedron was found.
The exhibition, which is free to visit, looks back at the last two years of excavations at the Lincolnshire site, and delves into the current understanding of the mysterious dodecahedron. It also reveals the wider information about the excavated site and the archaeological context in which the fascinating object was found.
I am delighted that we can display this fascinating exhibition at the University of Nottingham Museum. It is wonderful to celebrate its opening weekend by being part of the Festival of Archaeology with lots of activities which are free for all visitors."
Although 130 dodecahedra have been identified – 33 of them in Britain – their purpose remains unknown and there are no references in any Roman texts or depictions of them.
The 12-sided hollow object, made from copper and alloy – which stands around 8cm tall and weighs 245g – was found in the Potter Hill area of Norton Disney and is the only one yet to be discovered in the Midlands. Where most other examples have been found damaged, or as fragments, the Norton Disney dodecahedron is complete and in remarkable condition after 1,700 years of being buried. It is also one of the few to be recovered from a datable archaeological context.
Richard Parker, Secretary of the Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group, said "This exhibition will illustrate the circumstances of how the Norton Disney dodecahedron was found and the history of the site."
Most of the 130 dodecahedra found have come from the area known to the Romans as Gaul. This included all modern France and Belgium, as well as parts of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. The discovery prompts further questions about Norton Disney's importance in Roman times.
Chris Clay, Director of Allen Archaeology, added: "Working with such a keen and well-informed local history group has been an enjoyable experience for all our team and finding the dodecahedron has been a well-deserved reward for their hard work and enthusiasm, which I am sure will keep them going for many more seasons."
On Saturday 26 July the Museum will be celebrating the opening of the Norton Disney Dodecahedron exhibition with a Roman-themed, family-friendly Festival of Archaeology event. The Norton Disney History and Archaeology Group will be at the Museum to discuss their excavations and bring some finds from the site.
There will also be the opportunity to see the Museums Roman Samian pottery collection and find out more about it. Young visitors can also take part in Roman themed craft activities to take away.
The Festival of Archaeology will take place at the University of Nottingham Museum, Angear Visitor Centre and Learning Studio at Lakeside Arts between 12noon and 3.30pm. Suitable for Ages 7+.
