In brief
In a significant archaeological find, remnants of a basilica believed to be London's first public building have been discovered beneath an office building in the financial district. The 2,000-year-old structure, once the center of Roman civic life, includes massive foundations and walls constructed from flint, ragstone, and Roman tiles, measuring over 33 feet in length and 13 feet in depth.
The excavation took place after planning permission was granted for the demolition of the commercial building above. Sophie Jackson, a director at the Museum of London Archaeology, explained that the basilica served as a vital administrative centre where important decisions were made. The scale of the structure indicates it rose three stories high on a hill, dominating the ancient city landscape and acting as a hub for governance and possibly finance. Additionally, archaeologists have identified a tribunal within the basilica, a space used by magistrates for judicial proceedings.The discovery not only enhances our understanding of Roman London's urban planning but also highlights the cultural and administrative significance of the basilica during its heyday. With such a rich history lying beneath the modern cityscape, the site promises to offer further insights as more excavations are anticipated.
