Archaeologists have discovered part of London’s first Roman basilica under a modern office block. Built around AD70-80, it served as a public building, central to civic life in ancient Londinium. Recent excavations revealed significant wall structures, enhancing understanding of the city’s development.
Archaeologists from the Museum of London have uncovered a well-preserved section of Roman London’s first basilica beneath a modern office block. Dating back to the 70s or early 80s AD, this basilica served as a public space in a Roman town, often used for civic gatherings like political speeches and judicial hearings, alongside the forum, constituting the administrative centre of Londinium.
Previous excavations had revealed parts of the basilica and forum since the 1880s, but their significance was fully recognised only in 1923. Peter Marsden, a notable archaeologist, highlighted the importance of future excavations in elucidating the site’s history, as many archaeological deposits remain unexplored.
Recent efforts have been part of a significant redevelopment, allowing for targeted excavations that have uncovered substantial structures. Archaeologists have discovered substantial walls and foundations, measuring a metre wide and likely extending over 10 metres, constructed from flint, tile, and Kentish ragstone, with walls reaching up to four metres high.
Londinium’s establishment began around AD47/48, coinciding with the construction of a basilica before the Boudican Revolt in AD60/61. The foundational period culminated in a Flavian architectural programme, resulting in a rectangular basilica measuring 44m by 22.7m, featuring distinct aisles and a raised roof for natural light.
Evidence suggests a tribunal or platform existed at the structure’s eastern end, where important figures could elevate their status and visibility during public proceedings. This basilica commanded a prominent position in Londinium, asserting the city’s ambition for high status within the Roman Empire.
Following the Boudican Revolt, reconstruction occurred swiftly, indicating a shift towards urban expansion. The Flavian forum basilica at Londinium, built around the same time as Pompeii’s forum, was unique in that it did not centre around a temple, distinguishing it from many other provincial examples.
The first basilica had a relatively short lifespan, only standing for 20-30 years before being replaced by a much larger structure. The Museum of London Archaeology will further analyse the findings, promising to enhance our understanding and potentially open an exhibition to showcase these archaeological treasures.
The recent discovery of Roman London’s first basilica reveals vital insights into the city’s ancient civic architecture. Excavations have revealed substantial remnants that illustrate the building’s significance in Roman civic life. As more discoveries and analyses unfold, they will enhance our understanding not only of Londinium’s architectural history but also of its role within the Roman Empire.
Original Source: theconversation.com