During the excavation for a 32-story skyscraper, archaeologists unearthed the remains of a Roman basilica dating back almost 2,000 years.
This ancient basilica, built between 78 and 84 A.D., was situated at the heart of Londinium, the Roman name for London, according to The Associated Press.
Beneath a building earmarked for demolition, the team discovered the foundations of a two-story structure, nearly the size of an Olympic swimming pool.
The foundations, reaching 13 feet deep and over three feet wide, comprised flint, brick, and ragstone, as reported by AP.
This discovery is considered “one of the most significant in years” within the City of London’s historic square mile, according to Sophie Jackson of Museum of London Archaeology.
In Roman London, the basilica formed a key part of the forum—a central hub for commerce, social interaction, and public announcements, AP reported.
“This is the beating heart of Roman London, where all the decisions were made,” explained Andrew Henderson-Schwartz, head of public impact at Museum of London Archaeology.
The ruins are also thought to have been part of the tribunal, the forum’s administrative section.
“We’re looking at the earliest stages of London, showcasing significant investment even in its infancy,” added Henderson-Schwartz.
The discovery raises further questions about the original forum and its replacement after only 20 years. It also promises insights into the lives of Roman Londoners, according to AP.
Hertshten Properties, the site’s developer, has agreed to incorporate the ruins into a visitor center within the planned office tower, as reported by AP. British developers are required to consult archaeologists during their planning processes.
“We have glimpses of Roman London scattered throughout the city,” Henderson-Schwartz noted. “But this is the site that connects them all.”