Our friend Yulia came down from London to see us today so we decided to visit Fishbourne Roman Palace together. The Palace has a wonderful collection of Roman mosaics which were uncovered by a contractor who was digging a trench for a water pipe in 1960. Much of the original palace lies buried under houses but the mosaics which have survived largely intact are beautifully maintained and contain lots of wonderful details. Sadly I comprehensively failed to photograph them well today – I blame the dim lighting! Instead I focussed my photographic efforts on the museum and I was rather taken with a terracotta tile found during excavations on site which features some Roman pawprints. Yulia also explored some of the hands on exhibits, trying a spot of weaving and donning some Roman clothing. After a quick cuppa at home we then went for a drive over the South Downs, stopping off at West Dean Gardens where I introduced both Yulia and Kevin to Hortus, the resident cat.

This is so interesting, Helen.....it would be fascinating to visit such a place! Imagine knowing there was a Roman palace buried under your house. I think your photos are wonderful! lookagain · 2012-04-08: 17:41

A really cool set, Helen. Nothing like spending the day with friends. What a fascinating place. danrav · 2012-04-08: 19:18

Impressive text Helen... And your photos are always so beautiful :) josy63 · 2012-04-09: 02:38

great set! looks like a great place! jennyLit · 2012-04-09: 11:06

Great set mystic1 · 2012-04-10: 01:11

A day with friends .. heaven on eart I would say. And beautiful pictures as a memory. Ryana · 2012-04-14: 07:24

Looks like a nice day. That is a great shot of Yulia in her Roman attire! You have so many places you visit, which I think is so cool. Most of us don't take the time to see what is in our own back yard! You inspire me to do the same thing now that the weather is so nice.... lukesmom · 2012-04-15: 13:23

Tagged: yulia kevin hortus cat pawprint blossom flowers fishbourne