A Minecraft contest rebuilt the North Leigh Roman Villa as it appeared in AD 325, using real archaeological data.

A Minecraft competition has digitally reconstructed the North Leigh Roman Villa as it likely appeared around AD 325, using excavation records and LIDAR scans. Organized by local volunteers and judged by experts from English Heritage and Blenheim Palace, the contest featured detailed models with mosaics, hypocaust heating, and dining areas. Joe Raven won the £100 prize for his accurate and creative design, which will be used for public education. All participants received a Blenheim Palace family pass, and some entries may be displayed at the Custodian’s Cottage. The project uses digital tools to make ancient history more accessible.