Roman Basilica Discovered Beneath London Office Block

Construction workers in London have unearthed the remains of an ancient Roman basilica, dating back approximately 2,000 years during redevelopment in the city’s bustling financial district.

The basilica, a central hub for political, social, and commercial activities in Roman Londinium, was discovered beneath an office building on Gracechurch Street. The site, now set to be integrated into a public historical experience, offers an extraordinary glimpse into the city’s ancient past.

Archaeologists from the Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA) revealed that the basilica once served as a venue for official decisions made by Roman leaders, often on a raised platform to ensure the crowds could see and hear the speakers.

Architectural grandeur of Roman Londinium

The discovery showcases the architectural grandeur of Roman Londinium, established on the north bank of the River Thames, where modern London’s financial hub now stands.

“This is one of the most significant discoveries made in the City in recent years,” said Sophie Jackson, director of development at MOLA, in the statement.

“The levels of preservation of the Basilica have far exceeded our expectations, and we have possibly the most important part of the building,” she added. “Excitingly, we’ve only just scratched the surface of this site’s potential through our initial investigations.”

The excavation uncovered large foundations and walls constructed from flint, stone, and Roman bricks, with some measuring over 10 meters (32.8 feet) wide and four meters (13 feet) deep. Experts believe the basilica and its adjoining forum, built between the late 70s and 80s AD, covered an area similar to a modern soccer field and symbolized Roman power and influence.

The basilica’s significance extended beyond politics. It was a bustling center where citizens conducted business, resolved legal matters, and engaged in social discourse. Although abandoned in the 5th century, Roman Londinium’s architectural layout influenced medieval London and continues to shape the city today.

“It’s like discovering the Speaker’s Chair and chamber of the House of Commons, 2,000 years into the future,” Ms Jackson added.

Roman streets and buildings buried seven meters below the surface

London’s ground level has risen over the centuries, burying Roman streets and buildings as deep as seven meters below the surface. Despite previous archaeological studies hinting at the basilica’s presence, the extent of its preservation remained uncertain until now.

Ron Hertshten, CEO of Hertshten Properties, confirmed plans to incorporate the basilica into the design of the new development, allowing public access to the ancient site.

“The Roman Basilica will be incorporated as a world-class public experience through updates to the proposed design of the development, right in its original location,” Hertshten said.

The basilica was reportedly used for about 20 years before being replaced by a larger forum, reflecting Londinium’s rapid growth within the Roman Empire.