Unlocking Orpheus: Cirencester museum hosts day of Roman myth and mosaic discovery

Enthusiasts of archaeology and ancient myth are invited to step back into Roman Britain and uncover the story behind Cirencester’s celebrated Orpheus mosaic at a special conference hosted by the Corinium Museum. 

Taking place at the museum on 7 February, the Project Orpheus Partnership Conference will bring together leading experts to explore the artistry, archaeology, and mythology behind the mosaic as part of Project Orpheus – a National Lottery Heritage Fund initiative marking 200 years since the mosaic’s discovery in Cirencester. 

The event will showcase fresh insights from recent excavations, cutting-edge research, and the timeless stories that inspired these masterpieces, while drawing together current scholarship on Orpheus and his mosaics across Britain.  

Guest speakers include Professor Richard Miles, Professor Mark Horton, Professor Jenny Mann, and Stephen R. Cosh, who will explore Orpheus through the lenses of heritage, literature, art, and archaeology. 

Highlights include:  

• Professor Horton, who has conducted a geophysical survey on Barton Farm where the Corinium Museum Orpheus was discovered, exploring the question, Why Orpheus? 
• Professor Miles, overseeing archaeological excavations at Withington where another Orpheus mosaic was found, sharing an update on the dig and discoveries so far. 

• Stephen Cosh, who co-authored the compendium on Roman Mosaics of Britain, speaking about Orpheus mosaics in Britain. 
• Professor Mann, author of The Trials of Orpheus,  appearing virtually to talk about the literature of the Orpheus Myth. 

Emma Stuart, Corinium Museum Director, said: “We are really privileged to have been able to bring together so many specialists on one day, several of whom have appeared on national and international television and lead experts in their respective fields.  

“The museum’s mosaic collection is exceptional and to celebrate the Orpheus mosaic through a varied series of talks is incredibly valuable helping us celebrate local heritage and archaeology. We look forward to hosting this conference in partnership with the Cirencester Archaeological and Historical Society and welcoming attendees to this rare event.” 

The conference runs from 10am until 4pm on 7 February, and tickets cost £20 or £15 for members of the museum, BGAS and Cirencester Archaeological and Historical Society. The ticket price includes tea and coffee.  

The conference is made possible by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and is presented in partnership with the Barn Theatre, New Brewery Arts, the Corinium Museum and Cirencester Archaeological and Historical Society as part of Project Orpheus. 

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