The excavation for a new office tower in London's financial district led to the discovery of a 2,000-year-old basilica, the city's oldest public structure, shedding light on Roman administration and society.
Ancient Roman Basilica Discovered Beneath London Skyscraper Site
Ancient Roman Basilica Discovered Beneath London Skyscraper Site
Archaeologists unveil 2,000-year-old remains of a basilica believed to have served as the first public building in Roman London.
In a remarkable archaeological find beneath a commercial property in London's bustling financial district, a group of archaeologists has unearthed the remnants of what is believed to be the first public building in Roman London. The discovery, which includes substantial foundations and walls comprised of flint, ragstone, and Roman tile, dates back approximately 2,000 years.
The now-unearthed basilica was part of a larger Roman forum, serving as the city's administrative and social hub, much like a modern-day town hall, according to Sophie Jackson, a director at the Museum of London Archaeology. This significant find came to light during an excavation conducted prior to the planned demolition of the existing office building, which is set to make way for a 32-story mixed-use tower.
Initial findings from the excavation, reported over last summer, confirmed the existence of extensive structural remnants that measure over 33 feet long, three feet wide, and 13 feet deep in spots. The size and configuration of the basilica suggest that it was a three-story building strategically situated on elevated ground, underscoring its prominence within Roman London.
Experts believe that this basilica would have served as a key location for administrative activities, including the management of finances and the sitting of magistrates within the tribunal area—a designated space for legal proceedings and crucial governmental decisions.
Ms. Jackson emphasized the significance of the discovery, stating, "The basilica must have been one of the largest structures in the city at that time," and noted the insights it provides into the functions of Roman urban life and governance in ancient London. As archaeologists continue to study the site, they promise to uncover more about this pivotal chapter in the city's rich history.
