A Remarkable Archaeological Find
A surprising discovery has unveiled a significant piece of London's ancient history—a Roman-era basilica, hidden beneath a modern office building. Archaeologists stumbled upon the structure during construction work, revealing the remains of what is believed to be the city's first-ever basilica, dating back approximately 2,000 years.
A Window into Roman London
This historic public building played a central role in political, economic, and administrative decisions, offering invaluable insight into Roman-era governance and daily life. Experts consider it one of the most remarkable examples of Roman architecture found in London to date.
The excavation at 85 Gracechurch Street unearthed stone walls forming the foundation of the two-story basilica. According to Sophie Jackson from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA), this discovery represents the "heart of Roman London" and deepens our understanding of the city's early development as the capital of Roman Britain.
Discovery and Excavation Process
The basilica was uncovered during the preliminary demolition work for a new building. Archaeologists had previously suspected its approximate location, prompting an exploratory dig beneath the existing concrete floors.
After several test trenches yielded no results, a third attempt finally revealed well-preserved Roman architectural elements. The basilica, constructed around 80 AD, shortly after the Roman invasion of Britain, was part of London's forum—the bustling commercial and social hub. The site included a large open square surrounded by shops and offices, making it the city's administrative center.
This grand structure functioned as a town hall, hosting assemblies, legal proceedings, business transactions, and critical decision-making sessions for both London and the broader Roman province.
Impact on Modern Development Plans
Although the first basilica and its accompanying marketplace were only in use for about 20 years before being replaced by a second-generation forum, the discovery has significantly impacted the redevelopment plans of Hertshten Properties, the building’s current owner. The company has committed to fully excavating the site and integrating the historic remains into the design of the new office complex.
Preserving the Past for Public Access
James Taylor, an architect from Woods Bagot, acknowledged the engineering challenges of redesigning the new structure around such a critical archaeological site. The plan includes repositioning columns and adjusting the building’s height to accommodate the uncovered Roman stonework. Despite these challenges, Taylor expressed excitement about the project’s potential, noting that "it’s incredible to see people amazed by these historical discoveries."
Showcasing Roman London to the Public
This discovery adds to the growing collection of Roman-era landmarks hidden beneath London’s Square Mile. Efforts are already underway to make these historical sites more accessible to the public. For instance, parts of a Roman amphitheater are displayed beneath glass flooring at the Guildhall Art Gallery, while the Temple of Mithras has been brought to life through immersive light and sound installations at Bloomberg’s office space.
Chris Hayward from the City of London Corporation emphasized the emotional connection people can experience when engaging with ancient history. He highlighted the striking contrast between the city’s Roman origins and its modern skyline, underscoring the importance of balancing urban progress with historical preservation. This project will offer the public a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the rich heritage that lies beneath their feet.
