Archaeological excavations at Exeter Cathedral, according to the project organizers, have unearthed previously unknown Norman-era features.

The ancient high altar of the cathedral from the early 12th century has been positively identified by experts as having its foundations.

There have also been discoveries of a crypt-like region and tombs.

Before underfloor heating is placed, the excavation in the cathedral's quire [choir] section has been completed.

Entertaining archaeological discovery

In the 12th and 13th centuries, tombs of individuals presumed to be bishops have been discovered.

Bishops William Brewer and Robert Warelwast's remains were relocated in 1320, and two empty tombs have been discovered.

"We have discovered the buried floors of the Norman cathedral with the original high altar," said cathedral archaeologist John Allan. The Norman cathedral was last visible some 700 years ago.

A unusually deep backfilled chamber behind the altar, to the east, is what we believe to be a Norman crypt.

At Exeter Cathedral, this is unquestionably the most exciting archaeological find to date.

The majority of the current structure, which was constructed between the 12th and the 14th centuries, was added to the cathedral after its founding in 1050.

A wall from a Roman town house as well as the ruins of an early Roman roadway and timber structures were found by archaeologists digging in the cathedral's old cloister garden in a previous excavation.

As "new clues to Exeter's distant past," they described the discovery.