A 1,800-year-old Roman mosaic is to be revealed to the public for the second time since it was discovered 80 years ago.

Archaeologist Sir Mortimer Wheeler made the discovery in the 1930s during a dig on the site of the ancient Roman city of Verulamium, now St Albans.

Following research, it was confirmed that the relic was once the floor of a wealthy Roman’s villa. After it was discovered it was covered back up and left underground at Verulamium Park until the late 1960s, when it was lifted out at the request of St Albans City and District Council in 1968 to mark the opening of the newly-built City Hall theatre.

The artwork measures 3.6 square metres and is made up of hundreds of white, brown and red tiles arranged into shapes and symbols.

It became the centrepiece of the venue, which is known to residents now as the Alban Arena, when it was laid down in the foyer and put on display for three months.

Since then, the mosaic has been covered by a protective carpet for the past 48 years with theatre goers unknowingly walking on history.

The artefact will go on display during refurbishment work at the Arena. Cllr Annie Brewster, who is responsible for sport, leisure and heritage, said: “This is a rare and fantastic chance to view a mosaic that is part of St Albans’ history.

“Each of the mosaics that have been uncovered at Verulamium Park has its own special colours, symbols and patterns. This one is very intricate and striking, it’s hard to take your eyes off it.

“In the longer term, we have to move this mosaic for a permanent display rather than have it hidden from view and will be looking to raise funds to do that.”

The exhibition will take place from Monday 1 to Friday 12 August.