A recent archaeological discovery in the heart of the City of London has astonished experts. In the basement of the commercial building located at 85 Gracechurch Street, right next to the historic Leadenhall Market, archaeologists have uncovered significant remains of the city’s first Roman Basilica. Although it was known that the structure existed in this location thanks to decades of research and previous excavations, the magnitude of the find has exceeded all expectations.

For some time, archaeologists suspected that the remains of the Roman Basilica might lie beneath this site, though there was uncertainty about their state of preservation. The history of London, with its constant growth and urban redevelopment, had cast doubt on the possibility of finding intact structures.

To determine the level of preservation of the basilica, experts carried out various strategic excavations at key points of the site. The surprise was immense when they discovered foundations and large-scale walls built with flint, rubble stone, and Roman tiles. Some of these structures reach impressive dimensions: more than 10 meters (32 feet) long, one meter (3 feet) wide, and up to four meters (13 feet) deep. These remains confirm that a substantial part of the Roman Basilica still lies beneath 85 Gracechurch Street.

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A section of wall from the Roman Basilica. Credit: MOLA

One of the most outstanding aspects of the discovery is the identification of a key area within the Basilica: the Tribunal. In this elevated space, magistrates and political leaders of ancient Londinium made significant decisions, shaping the city’s future more than 2,000 years ago. At the time, this area represented the administrative and judicial heart of the Roman metropolis in Britannia.

The Basilica was the nerve center of Londinium, functioning as a political, judicial, commercial, and social hub. It is estimated to have been built between A.D. 70 and 80, during the governorship of Agricola. Its location on an elevated point and atop a monumental platform reinforced its importance and symbolism.

With an area equivalent to that of a football field, the Basilica stood as a manifestation of Roman power. It is believed to have had at least two levels, making it visible from various parts of the city. In front of it, a large open courtyard served as a gathering place for merchants, citizens, and visitors, hosting everything from markets to public events and festivals.

roman basilica londinium
A reconstruction drawing of the first London Forum. Credit: Peter Marsden

However, the first Basilica and Forum had a relatively short lifespan. About 20 years after its construction, work began on a second forum of colossal dimensions, nearly five times larger than the original. Its main courtyard reached a size comparable to present-day Trafalgar Square, reflecting Rome’s growing power in Britannia. The first Basilica remained in use until the completion of the second Forum, after which it was demolished, leaving few traces of its interior. However, the recent excavations at Gracechurch Street could provide invaluable information about its original design and structure.

Sophie Jackson, Director of Development at MOLA, has described this find as one of the most significant in the City of London in recent years. According to her statements, it is comparable to discovering the British Parliament chamber 2,000 years in the future. The levels of preservation have exceeded all expectations, and it is possible that this section corresponds to the most significant part of the building.

Despite the significance of this discovery, only a small fraction of the site has been explored. In collaboration with Hertshten Properties, the Museum of London, and the City of London Corporation, efforts are underway to develop an archaeological and cultural experience that will allow the public to learn more about the city’s history.

roman basilica londinium
Architects impression of the proposed exhibition space. Credit: Woods Bagot

Recognizing the importance of these remains, the site’s owners have decided to integrate them into the redevelopment project for 85 Gracechurch Street. In partnership with Shaw Corporation, Gardiner & Theobald, and architects Woods Bagot, proposals are being developed for the creation of a public exhibition space, events, and immersive experiences in collaboration with the Museum of London.

This project will allow visitors to experience what it was like to stand in the political and judicial center of ancient Londinium. Additionally, it will narrate the city’s evolution from its Roman origins to the present day. The official request to incorporate this new space is expected to be submitted in the spring of 2025. If approved, a more extensive excavation will take place, potentially revealing more details about the Basilica and its interior.

If everything proceeds as planned, this innovative historical space could open its doors to the public between 2029 and 2030, becoming a new cultural attraction in the heart of London.

SOURCES

Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA)

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