An artist's impression of the new garden. Courtesy National Museums Wales

Once a Roman stronghold where military features were part of the landscape, Wales’ National Roman Legion Museum at Caerleon will soon have a new, more floral and ornamental Roman feature.

Work is underway on a new Roman style garden at the museum, inspired by gardens from around the Roman Empire with traditional elements such as pergolas, ornate raised flower beds, box hedging and frescoes.

“We have been looking forward to starting work on the Roman garden for some time,” said Dai Price, Museum Manager, “and we are developing a range of resources and interpretation to help visitors find out more about Roman horticulture and its uses in everyday life.”

“Work will commence by planting 22 new cypress trees during the winter, before laying new paths, painting frescoes and planting the garden in the spring.”

After opening to the public in summer 2008, the garden will provide a fresh backdrop for many activities.