London Museum Receives Landmark Roman Archaeology Donation

A Historic Gift for the Future of Archaeology

The London Museum has received an extraordinary £20 million donation from Bloomberg Philanthropies, along with the largest collection of Roman-era archaeological materials ever added to its archives.

The artifacts were uncovered during the construction of Bloomberg’s new London office, revealing one of the city’s most remarkably preserved collections of ancient wooden and fabric remains—materials that are rarely found intact.

A Groundbreaking Excavation

Supported by Bloomberg, the archaeological dig at the site became one of London’s most significant excavations. The location, already world-famous as the home of a 3rd-century AD temple dedicated to the Roman god Mithras, yielded astonishing discoveries. Among them was Britain’s most extensive and earliest collection of Roman writing tablets, which include the first known written reference to London. These artifacts provide an unparalleled glimpse into the lives of early Roman Londoners.

Since 2017, around 600 of these artifacts, along with the reconstructed Mithraeum, have been on free public display at the London Mithraeum on the Bloomberg site. However, countless other artifacts and stories from the excavation remain untold—until now.

Expanding Access to Roman London’s History

The newly acquired collection will now be housed at the London Museum, opening new doors for research into the city’s Roman past. Many of these artifacts, never before exhibited, will go on display for the first time when the museum opens in 2026. The objects will be showcased in the museum’s new underground galleries, situated at approximately the same level as the original Roman streets—bringing visitors closer to the ancient city.

A Lasting Legacy for London

Sharon Ament, Director of the London Museum, expressed the significance of this donation, stating:

“This collection, together with this generous donation, represents a momentous gift that ties the past to the future and will be a lasting legacy for London. By working with organizations like Bloomberg, we can make a profound impact—not only by preserving the city’s heritage but also by creating extraordinary spaces and opportunities for the people of London today.”

The highly anticipated London Museum has adjusted its opening date and is now set to welcome visitors in 2026, offering a new and immersive way to experience the city’s ancient past.