Unearthed Roman Basilica Reveals London's Historic Architectural Legacy

The discovery of a basilica beneath a commercial site in London's financial district illuminates the architectural and administrative significance of Roman London, suggesting it served as a central hub for public affairs.

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, researchers have unveiled the ancient remains of a Roman basilica underneath the basement of a commercial building in London's bustling financial district. This structure, believed to be around 2,000 years old, is being recognized as the first public building in London, offering invaluable insights into the city’s historical landscape.

The basilica was an integral part of London’s Roman forum, serving as a central public square and essentially functioning as the city’s first town hall, according to Sophie Jackson, a director with the Museum of London Archaeology. The excavation began after the granting of demolition and construction permits for a new 32-story mixed-use office tower at the site, and the findings have captivated historians and archaeologists alike.

Among the notable findings are substantial foundations and walls composed of flint, ragstone, and Roman tile. The remarkable scale of these remnants hints at the basilica's impressive structure, which was likely three stories high and positioned atop a hill. Some of the remnants measured more than 33 feet in length, 3 feet in width, and 13 feet in depth.

According to archaeologists, the basilica played a dual role; while it functioned as a space for administrative governance, it may also have been a secure location for the storage of funds. A particular area within the basilica, referred to as a tribunal, is believed to have been where magistrates conducted legal proceedings and made pivotal governmental judgments.

This historic find has not only enriched London’s architectural narrative but has also opened a window into the administrative practices of ancient Roman society, illustrating how public space was utilized for governance and legal matters in a formative period of the city’s development.