Rare 4th Century coffin lining to be preserved

The coffin lining, currently on display in Chichester, was unearthed in 1985

The lining of a rare Roman lead coffin from the 4th Century is to be conserved for future generations.

The coffin lining, unearthed in 1985, is currently on display in The Novium Museum, Chichester.

An investment of £35,000 from Chichester District Council (CDC) will see it preserved, while an extra £45,000 funding for the museum will enable it to create an improved audio-visual experience and better interactive interpretation for visitors entering its Roman Gallery.

The council said the artefact was one of only a few hundred that had been found in Britain to date and was discovered during excavations of a late Roman cemetery outside the Roman Walls.

The coffin lining is currently displayed at the museum in a large case.

The council said due to its delicate nature, the lining needed to be transferred to its own, custom-built display case.

It added that the material could be kept in controlled environmental conditions which will protect it.

Specialist work will need to be carried out to treat existing corrosion and prevent any further deterioration before that can happen.

Councillor John Cross, cabinet member for culture, sport and place at CDC, said: "This is a wonderful piece of Chichester's Roman history.

"By undertaking this project, we are safeguarding a piece of our shared story and history."

The authority added that it hoped work could begin in early 2026.