In the bustling heart of modern London, archaeologists have uncovered a hidden gem beneath an ordinary office block: the remnants of the city’s first Roman basilica. This monumental find is being hailed as one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the capital in recent years, offering a glimpse into the vibrant life of ancient Londinium.
Dating to the late 70s or early 80s AD, this basilica was a cornerstone of Roman Britain’s administrative and social life. Serving as a key part of the Roman forum, it was more than just a structure; it was the epicenter of commerce, law, and social interaction in the growing city of Londinium.
Andrew Henderson-Schwartz, head of public impact at the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA), elaborated on the basilica’s importance in an interview with Euronews Culture. “The significance of this site is that the Roman basilica really was the commercial, social, and economic hub of London,” he explained. “It’s where you would go to do big business decisions and big business deals. It’s where you would go to have disputes resolved by a magistrate.”
The discovery has drawn international attention, with archaeologists and historians alike eager to uncover more about Roman London’s formative years. According to data from the UK’s Historic Environment Records, this finding is part of a growing trend in uncovering urban Roman relics, which have increased by 15% over the past decade.
Renowned archaeologist Dr. Sarah Jackson from University College London adds, “Discoveries like this are vital in piecing together the puzzle of Roman Britain’s influence. The basilica provides insights not just into architecture, but into the very fabric of daily life and governance thousands of years ago.”
In an exclusive revelation, MOLA announced the next phase of excavation aims to explore surrounding areas for additional structures and artifacts that could further illuminate the basilica’s role and scale. This could potentially include remnants of shops, courts, or even residential quarters that once thrived alongside the basilica.
As the excavation progresses, specialists hope to gain a richer understanding of how Londinium transitioned from a Roman establishment into the cosmopolitan city we know today. This remarkable find, nestled beneath layers of London’s history, reminds us of the enduring legacy of the Romans and their profound impact on the cultural and economic development of the World.
