Today in our short blog we explored the roman ruins hidden in Surrey, UK.

Known as the ruins of Leptis Magna but sometimes referred to as the temple of Augustus. Transported from the city of Leptis Magna in a modern day Libya in 1816. Leptis Magna was once one of the most beautiful cities of the Roman Empire, with its imposing public monuments, harbours, market places and residential districts. The city was founded in the 7th Century BC and rose to prominence in 193 AD under Emperor Septimius Severus.

Built in the 1820s in the form of an idealised classical ruin, it was colonel Hanmer Warrington along with his artist friend who visited the ruined roman city and brought back some of the relics to the British Museum.  After lying around for some time without any use it was decided that King George the 5th could have them to use as garden adornments at Virginia Waters. It was then created into a folly in the form of a roman temple using the looted leptis magna stones along with some classical statues taken from a captured French ship, the kings architect called his creation the temple of Augustus, which has been said to be in honour of King George  middle name.

Visiting the ruins at Virginia waters unfortunately was closed in order to protect the stonework and also at this current time where restrictions are still about, so we popped up the drone to have a look above for your perspective. If you check out our video below, you will be able to experience a short glimpse into it’s structure and aesthetic. Till next time!