Ruins of Oldest Roman Basilica Ever Found in London Unearthed on Construction Site

Image Credit: Alan Carr

Archaeologists have uncovered the ruins of what is believed to be the oldest Roman basilica ever found in London, located at a construction site in the heart of the UK capital. The discovery, which has sent ripples through the archaeological community, sheds new light on London's ancient history and its role as a thriving Roman city.

The site, situated near the historic heart of the City of London, was being prepared for development when workers stumbled upon the remarkable remains. Excavations revealed parts of the basilica's foundation, walls, and intricate floor mosaics, which date back to the early years of Roman occupation in Britain, around the 1st century AD.

Experts from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) have been working alongside developers to carefully excavate the site and preserve the artefacts. Dr. Emily Thompson, a leading archaeologist on the project, described the find as "extraordinary."

"This basilica is of immense historical significance," said Dr. Thompson. "Not only is it the oldest Roman basilica discovered in London, but it also provides invaluable insight into the early urban development of the city. It shows how the Romans established key public buildings that were central to both religious and civic life in their colonies."

The basilica, which would have been used for various functions including legal proceedings, gatherings, and possibly religious ceremonies, offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of Roman Londinium. The mosaics discovered at the site feature intricate patterns and motifs, adding further detail to the rich cultural exchange that characterised Roman Britain.

The discovery is also notable because it contradicts previous assumptions about the size and scope of London during the Roman era. While it was widely believed that Londinium was primarily a commercial hub, this basilica suggests that the city also had a prominent civic and religious centre much earlier than previously thought.

The excavation is ongoing, with archaeologists hoping to uncover more artefacts that could further illuminate the history of Roman London. The site is expected to become a significant point of interest for both researchers and the public, offering a unique opportunity to experience one of the city’s oldest buildings in its original context.

Local historians and heritage groups have expressed excitement about the find, noting that it highlights the importance of preserving London’s ancient past amidst the city’s rapid modern development. “We often think of London as a modern metropolis, but discoveries like this remind us of the deep and rich history that lies beneath our feet,” said Sarah Mitchell, a spokesperson for the London Historical Society.

The discovery of the Roman basilica comes at a time when the UK is placing greater emphasis on protecting its archaeological heritage, with more attention being paid to the preservation of ancient sites amid ongoing urban development.

As work continues on the construction site, the ruins will be carefully preserved and studied. The archaeologists involved in the project are optimistic that the site will yield more important findings in the weeks to come.

The basilica’s discovery adds another chapter to London’s complex and fascinating history, showing just how much there is still to learn about the city’s origins and the people who first inhabited it more than 2,000 years ago.