Beneath the bustling streets of London’s financial district lies a hidden treasure of the past—an ancient Roman basilica that was discovered beneath a modern office block. This remarkable find, which dates back nearly 2,000 years, has shed new light on the origins and development of Londinium, the Roman settlement that eventually grew into the vibrant metropolis we know today. For archaeologists and historians, this excavation is not just an exploration of the city’s Roman roots, but a tangible link between the modern city and its ancient foundations.
The Location and Discovery
The discovery took place at 85 Gracechurch Street, situated in the heart of London’s historic financial district. Archaeologists from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) have been working on this excavation for several years. The original plan was to demolish the 90-year-old office block in preparation for a new 32-story tower. However, during preliminary work, archaeologists unearthed substantial remnants of the basilica’s foundation—a monumental and unexpected discovery that would ultimately change the course of the redevelopment project. This was not just another piece of ancient masonry; it was the core of one of the most important public buildings in Roman Londinium.
The team from MOLA knew of the site’s general importance, but the extent to which the Roman structure was preserved was a pleasant surprise. Over several months, the archaeologists uncovered large, thick pieces of Roman masonry, including a substantial section of the basilica’s walls. The find is especially remarkable considering the constant redevelopment of London and the challenges of preserving ancient remains in a city that has been continually rebuilt over the centuries.
Video
Watch the video to see archaeologists uncover an extraordinary 2,000-year-old Roman basilica beneath a London office, revealing a hidden piece of history.
The Roman Basilica: Structure and Purpose
The basilica uncovered beneath Gracechurch Street was built around 80 CE, during the reign of Agricola, the Roman governor who oversaw the invasion of Britain. Measuring approximately 40 meters long and 20 meters wide, this basilica was not only large by the standards of its time but also tall—estimated to rise nearly 40 feet high. The structure was designed to be the beating heart of Roman Londinium, serving as the city’s administrative, legal, and economic center. It would have been where important decisions were made, legal disputes were settled, and merchants gathered to do business.
The basilica’s size and design underscore its significance. In many Roman towns, basilicas were the equivalent of modern town halls, often used for public meetings and judicial proceedings. In the case of Londinium, it also symbolized the consolidation of Roman power over the region and served as a reminder of Roman authority in the growing settlement.
The Functionality of the Forum
The basilica was part of Londinium’s forum complex, which acted as the civic and commercial center of the city. A bustling hub of activity, the forum was where citizens and officials would come together to exchange goods, conduct legal proceedings, and discuss matters of public interest. The forum was the place where Roman magistrates would hold court, deliver speeches, and issue decrees, while merchants would offer their wares to the growing population of Londinium.
For a city that was only a few decades old at the time of the basilica’s construction, the presence of such a large, imposing structure speaks volumes about the ambitions of the Roman Empire in Britain. The decision to build a grand basilica so soon after the Roman conquest of Britain marked a vote of confidence in Londinium’s future as an important city in the empire.
The Discovery of Artifacts and Masonry
Among the most striking discoveries at the excavation site were the large chunks of Roman masonry that revealed the full scale of the basilica. The walls, made of durable limestone quarried from Kent, were found to be more than three feet wide and over 13 feet deep, suggesting that the structure was not only imposing in size but also built to last. Other artifacts, including roof tiles with official city stamps, were uncovered, helping to confirm the building’s significance and its connection to Londinium’s civic life.
The exceptional preservation of the basilica’s foundations has provided invaluable insight into the construction techniques used by the Romans in Britain. This discovery is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in London, offering a rare glimpse into the architectural and urban planning practices that shaped the city.
The Historical Context of the Basilica
The construction of the basilica occurred during a tumultuous period in Londinium’s history. After the Roman invasion of Britain in 43 CE, the city’s future was uncertain. The rebellion of Boudica in 60 CE had led to the near destruction of Londinium, and the rebuilding process was slow. However, by the late 1st century CE, Londinium had begun to thrive, and the construction of the basilica was a sign of the city’s resurgence and growing importance within the Roman Empire.
The basilica and its forum were in use for only about 20 years before they were replaced by a much larger and more elaborate structure. By the 2nd century CE, Londinium had become one of the largest cities in Roman Britain, surpassing other major settlements like Colchester. The rapid growth of the city reflected its increasing economic importance and its strategic position within the empire.
Impact of the Find on Modern Development
The discovery of the basilica beneath Gracechurch Street has had a significant impact on the redevelopment plans for the area. Originally, the site was slated for demolition to make way for a modern office tower. However, the remarkable preservation of the basilica’s foundations prompted the developers, Hertshten Properties, to revise their plans. Instead of demolishing the entire site, they have worked with archaeologists to incorporate the ancient ruins into the new development.
The developers, in collaboration with the architects at Woods Bagot, have designed a new office tower that will include a public exhibition space and events area in the basement, allowing visitors to explore the ancient remains. This thoughtful integration of Roman heritage into a modern development reflects a growing awareness of the importance of preserving historical sites amid urban growth. The inclusion of a public museum space will ensure that the basilica’s legacy is accessible to future generations.
Comparative Finds and Roman London
This discovery is part of a broader pattern of archaeological exploration in London that has unearthed many significant Roman-era structures. In recent years, portions of a Roman amphitheater have been uncovered beneath the Guildhall Art Gallery, while the Temple of Mithras is now part of an immersive exhibition in Bloomberg’s London offices. These findings, including the basilica, contribute to a deeper understanding of Roman London and its role within the empire.
The ongoing excavation of Roman sites in London has revealed much about the city’s urban development, social structure, and economic activity during the Roman period. The basilica, with its impressive scale and strategic location, offers key insights into the administrative and cultural functions of Roman Londinium.
Video
Watch the video London’s Hidden Gems: Roman Amphitheatre to explore the ancient amphitheatre hidden beneath the city and uncover its historical significance.
Conclusion
The discovery of London’s first Roman basilica beneath Gracechurch Street is a groundbreaking find that has rewritten the history of Londinium. As archaeologists continue to unearth new sections of the site, they are shedding light on the early Roman period in Britain, providing a rare and detailed glimpse into the life and organization of the city. This discovery not only deepens our understanding of London’s Roman past but also highlights the importance of preserving historical sites in the face of modern development. The ongoing collaboration between archaeologists, developers, and the public will ensure that the legacy of this ancient building is preserved for generations to come.
